Our Story
Our organization was started by volunteers in 1997. They had one
goal in mind: to make mental health care easier to access and to support
people living with schizophrenia and psychotic spectrum disorders.
Their mission continues today thanks to the hard work of our dedicated
volunteers, generous donors, and funding support. We are so grateful to
everyone who has helped shape the Schizophrenia Society into what it is today.
Mission Statement
We believe quality mental health care should be accessible to all. Our mission is to reduce stigma and advocate for equal opportunities in healthcare, education, work, and personal growth. Join us in raising awareness and supporting those affected by schizophrenia and related disorders.
Core Values
-
Trauma-Informed Care
-
Feminist Approach
-
Harm Reduction
-
Person-Centered Support
-
Accessibility & Inclusion
-
Dignity & Compassion
-
Hope & Recovery
-
Collaboration & Community
Meet our staff
Susan E. Hyde
Executive Director
Being a mental health advocate for many years brings me the greatest sense of purpose and gratitude.
I am a member of the Bipolar Club and have my own experiences with the mental health system, notably a 2-month stay at the Waterford Hospital in 2007. Three of the many goals I set for myself then, I have achieved:
Performing a stand-up comedy routine about my stay at the Waterford at The Rooms
Finding my way back to acute care psychiatric units through facilitating Motivation Monday Peer Support Groups at the Waterford and new Mental Health and Addictions Centre
Initiating work on a journal and guide for inpatients to get the most out of their hospital stay.
Prior to my work at the Schizophrenia Society NL I served 10 years as a Search and Rescue volunteer, becoming of President of my team. Having the role of Executive Director at the Schizophrenia Society is an absolute privilege and I thank the former Executive Director Dave Banko, all our volunteers and our Board of Directors for their unwavering support, guidance and vision. I don't do any of this work alone - I have been fortunate to collaborate with many talented, creative and dedicated mental health advocates, volunteers and allies to provide services, programs and events. I look forward to a future of ongoing improvements in medications, treatments, psychosocial education, services, housing and programs for people affected by schizophrenia and psychosis.​
My current focus is on changing the way we all look at schizophrenia - yes, it's a brain disease.
Yes, as a community we need to learn what is real about the illness and what is not. We also need to advocate as a province for increased funding and focus on wrap-around services and programs for all ages and needs.
​
Join us for our latest project - Schizophrenia Journey: Beyond the Diagnosis - surveying attitudes and experiences of schizophrenia and psychosis throughout the province. All are welcome to submit stories, poems, music, videos, art, dance, other. The outcome will consist of an overview of what is going on for people on the schizophrenia journey as well as their friends, allies, family and community members and service providers.​
​
Thank you for visiting our website, please let us know if we can be of service.
Describe your image
Describe your image
Describe your image
Describe your image
Volunteers
We would like to thank all our volunteers. They
are a crucial part of this organization and our services would not be made available if it was
not for the dedication and work of our
volunteers. We appreciate you!
Future Plans
One of our long-term goals is to create a safe and affordable space for people living with schizophrenia and psychosis. A place where they can feel at home,
visit comfortably, and have access to supportive programs and services.