I am happy to include the article below about a small, community-based agency called Psychiatric Survivors Ottawa (PSO). The article was written by my new intern, Salwen Kayembe, who will be working with the Bay Ward team this year. As she has been coming to know about Ottawa services, Salwen was captivated by the good work of PSO, and wanted to make sure that others were also aware of their work.
When faced with mental health challenges, hope, recovery, wellness and a sense of community is what is needed. The Psychiatric Survivors of Ottawa offers that. This non-profit, member driven organization cares about its people and offers a safe and unbiased environment for consumers/survivors and their families to come together and support each other. What makes this organization unique is that it is a community of peers using their lived
experiences with the mental health system to support one another in moving towards their full potential.
They offer multiple, free, online peer support groups for anyone aged 16 and older that is dealing with mental health and/or addictions. Even if you’re just looking for some entertainment, the organization offers several online fun activities like games and trivia, virtual lounge, laughter yoga and many more! There are also weekly support groups specifically for the families and friends of people experiencing mental health challenges, where topics such as boundaries, codependency and letting go are discussed.
The Psychiatric Survivors of Ottawa is unquestionably a recommended organization for anyone and everyone in the community that is looking for support, guidance, health, a second chance and some light at the end of the tunnel. For more information you can visit their website, contact them @613-567-4379 or send them an email at info@pso-ottawa.ca.
As a young, black woman who is currently in school, working and dealing with the realities of life, I have found myself being completely stressed out, anxious and distressed. If I had known about this organization beforehand, I would have definitely gone out to seek some support and guidance when facing my challenging times. Now that I do know about the Psychiatric Survivors of Ottawa, I will not hesitate to contact them and I hope that everyone who reads this as well will not hesitate either. Mental health is extremely important and when it is at risk, so are we.