October 3 - 9 is Mental Illness Awareness Week

This week is Mental Illness Awareness Week. MIAW is an annual national public education campaign designed to show Canadians the reality of mental illness.

Mental illness affects more than six million—or one in five—Canadians. Mental disorders constitute 5 of the 10 leading causes of disability around the word. Many Canadians do not realize they are ill and don’t seek help because of the stigma surrounding mental illness. There are a lot of misconceptions about mental illnesses and the people who have mental illness. The goal of Mental Illness Awareness Week is to help bring mental illness out from the shadows and to prove that people with metnal illnesses can lead healthy, productive lives.

There are many events across BC celebrating Mental Illness Awareness Week. Here are some highlights:

Making Mental Health Matter, Prince George BC
7 – 9pm, October 4, 2005
A 2 hour workshop geared at “looking after your mental health”
For further information please visit http://www.bcsspg.org

'People Say I’m Crazy’ – Film viewing and Mental Health Panel Dicussion, Penticton BC
7 – 9pm, October 4, 2005
The 1st documentary by someone with schizophrenia. John invites his audience to tour the world of “his beauitful mind” and see how the illness binds his family together as he fights to build a fulfilling life. Panel discussion to follow.
Please contact Joanne Perry at cmhaunity@shaw.ca or 250-493-6327 for further information

Mental Illness Awareness Display at West Vancouver Memorial Library, West Vancouver BC
1 – 8pm, October 5, 2005
Brochures, refreshments and a short video will be on display to help increase awareness and educate the community about available resources.
For further information please visit http://www.bcssnorthshore.org

For more information about Mental Illness Awareness Week, an event in your area or to post your own community event please visit the Mental Illness Awareness Week’s official website at http://www.miaw-ssmm.ca/