About 60 people took part in the Annual Peace of Minds Walk for Schizophrenia held on May 25.
The walkers gathered at the Evergreen Centre and were greeted by Guelph Mayor Karen Farbridge and MPP Liz Sandals before taking to the streets to raise funds and promote awareness for the work of the Schizophrenia Society of Ontario. The dignitaries emphasized the importance of awareness, education and community support.
Schizophrenia affects about 1% of the population and about 3% of the population will experience at least one episode of psychosis, all around the world, irrespective of one’s gender, race, class and culture.
While not everyone with schizophrenia will experience the same symptoms, some symptoms, such as delusions, hallucinations and thought disorder are common to many. Symptoms of schizophrenia are generally divided into two categories: positive symptoms and negative symptoms. Positive symptoms refer to symptoms that should not normally be present, like fixed false beliefs and hallucinations. Negative symptoms reflect a reduction of normal capacities, examples include social withdrawal and emotional unresponsiveness.
While there currently is no cure, schizophrenia is treatable. However, because this illness varies in severity from one person to another, the intensity and type of treatment will vary accordingly.
The SSO works all across Ontario to:
– Provide support to individuals, families and communities living with schizophrenia and psychotic illnesses.
– Sound Off, the youth-engagement initiative, educates young people in high schools, colleges and universities about the signs and symptoms of serious mental illnesses, while encouraging them to be an active voice in changing the way we think, talk and act around mental illnesses. Early treatment often means a better outcome.
– Our advocacy department works to make sure our voice – the voice of those impacted my mental illnesses – is heard. We work to change the knowledge, service and policy landscape in Ontario, putting mental health care front and centre.
– Research is a top priority for SSO and our Research Department is engaged in scientific innovation with a major goal to transform best evidence in mental health research into effective mental health practice.
– We are the resource throughout Ontario to improve the quality of life for individuals, families and communities affected by these illnesses. We are an organization that believes in diversity and equity for all and we are passionate about our cause.
– Our Peace of Minds Walk for Schizophrenia and Psychosis is an important event for the SSO. It’s our most visible event to raise awareness around schizophrenia and psychosis. It’s also a vital fundraising initiative.
All the funds raised support our programs and services which are offered all across Ontario. Nine walks will be held across Southern Ontario. The Guelph walk raised about $5,000.
