Together in the Journey – Family Council Story

Apr 23, 2024

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Our family council members find solace in a shared experience. They have walked alongside a loved one as they have accessed services through CMHA Waterloo Wellington.

They have a desire to give back and a common goal to improve mental health services.

They truly do understand because they have all been there.

“CMHA WW was a “lifeline” to us when our child was in major crisis. I wanted to be a part of Family Council to give back to the community organization that had provided us all with critical supports when we needed it and didn’t know where to go for help or what to do next.”

‘Together in the Journey’ means “I, my child, my family are not alone to navigate the complex and confusing system of mental health supports. It means that I/my family are important parts of the support system. It means we have access to trained professionals who care about us, who “get” what we are going through.”

“Each and every person we have had the pleasure to have worked for has been so dedicated to the care of our loved one and our family as a whole.”

“It just felt so right to come in and support an organization that meant the world to me.”

When you live with chronic mental health in your family it can start to feel very isolating, being a part of Family Council is a source of mutual support. “I have found COMFORT in hearing other caregivers stories and struggles realizing I was not alone.”

“I don’t feel so isolated and alone being part of a caring, nonjudgmental and understanding group who have walked a similar journey that I have.”

‘Together in the Journey’ means CMHA staff and Family Council work alongside each other as partners in a common goal to have the best possible health outcomes for clients and family/caregivers.

Participating in the Shopper’s Run for Women is an extension of ‘Together in the Journey’ for our Family Council Members:

“It gave me a feeling of hope and made me feel happy, excited, motivated, empowered and it touched my heart. This event showed me there are so many caring people/women and the courage to share their stories to encourage others to have a voice and show they are not alone.”

“I was overwhelmed with emotions and a sense of community. It was incredible to see so many people come together and support each other and work at ending the stigma of Mental Health. Again, you just don’t get it unless you’ve lived it and being with so many that truly understand made me feel so connected and supported.”

“Seeing the range of ages, genders, abilities participating in the Run for Women, I was thrilled to see that women’s mental health was important to so many in our region. I loved how positive and helpful the energy of everyone was; staff, volunteers and the participants.

It really was infectious! My favorite part was walking with other Family Council members because I was able to get to know them better through doing something fun and laughing together. It was truly a bonding experience for me to do the walk with them.”

“The Shopper’s Run for Women has become a fun tradition to continue to do with my loved one who is in service and with my neighbour who has been there to help support both me and my loved ones struggling with their mental health.”

Learn more about CMHA WW’s Family Council here: Family Council – CMHA Waterloo Wellington (cmhaww.ca)