Accomplishments

The Secret Handshake is the first Peer Support Network in Canada created by people with schizophrenia for people with schizophrenia. Our group was formed in 2004 in response to a void in the after-treatment of patients following a schizophrenia diagnosis. Our model of peer support is somewhat similar to that created by and for alcoholics in Alcoholics Anonymous.

The Secret Handshake recognizes that peers are uniquely equipped to counsel and support others coping with the illness. Members mentor and share recovery techniques and resources. Most important, we build deep friendships based on mutual trust and respect, breaking the cycle of isolation, stigma and ostracism. Of course, any mental or physical illness requires treatment and support specific to that illness. This is why there is such value in our Diagnostic Specific model.

The Secret Handshake complements traditional mental health practice. While the right balance of medications is usually a condition of successful recovery, it is not sufficient on its own.

Once symptoms are under control, successful recovery must incorporate all facets of a person's life including the emotional, psychological and social challenges of living with the reality of schizophrenia. The challenges include the symptoms and the stigma that accompany the illness.

Usually people coping with schizophrenia do not have the support and skills required to reintegrate into the mainstream. They are often not aware of the services available to them. We help them navigate the system. They can be very isolated, even in a family setting. Members often flourish when they meet regularly with people who are living with the schizophrenia experience. Members have the opportunity to discover the disease is manageable and they can actually live productive lives. Some have gone from being totally isolated for years to being highly functional.

Our simple, practical and effective approach to recovery includes Peer Support, Education/Research and Employment. The group also takes the weight off families who are normally taxed as the main caregivers.

We hope our recovery model will become standard practice across Canada. Our intention is to prove that this is feasible and desirable.

If you have schizophrenia and would like to talk to one of our members please click here to email us.

Peter Green (on the left)
one of founding members of Fleetwood Mac, had schizophrenia

Bob Mosley
Singer/Songwriter and Bassist