creative forces

Blog # 96…August, 2019                                                                                                            

It's easy to get caught up in the notion that making efforts to change the world aren’t worth it: it’s hopeless, too complicated, too entrenched, controlled by powerful people, and on and on. And yet…as Margaret Mead said “Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world, for indeed, that’s all who ever have.”

On the last Sunday of the month, Toronto’s Kensington Market is taken over by a promenade of people enjoying the sights - of shops, cafes and each other.  Upstairs in a small venue, also on the last Sunday afternoon, poet bill bissett welcomes a group of people for a reading of poetry and prose at The Secret Handshake. Although it sounds like some sort of ancient order, it’s actually a very modern outgrowth of the movement to mobilize peers in supporting people with mental illness.

Founded in 2004 by Jordan Stone, The Secret Handshake provides peer support for individuals living in the community with schizophrenia. The treatment and support of any physical or mental illness needs to be specific to that illness, making the diagnosis specific model used at TSH the most appropriate and successful. Members mentor and share recovery techniques and resources and, most importantly, build friendships based on mutual trust and respect, breaking the cycle of isolation and stigma. Creative events and activities offer involvement to people who find conventional settings difficult to approach and/or unwelcoming.

Writing workshops, Honey Novick's voice yoga and story- telling groups are offered, along with a gallery to exhibit members’ art.  Drop ins and monthly readings bring members together in a normal and positive way to express and enjoy themselves. The Friendly Voice, a monthly newsletter ably edited by Michael Alzamora publishes new findings in the field of schizophrenia as well as announcing events and profiling individuals like John Nash, the Nobel laureate in economics, whose story of living with schizophrenia was told in the film A Beautiful Mind.

Events feature artists who read their work or exhibit their artwork, no distinction is made (or necessary) about mental status…we’re all there to listen and appreciate words or relish images. It’s a great resource for people to come and have a relaxing time with their friend or family member. Finding something to enjoy together is sometimes one of the most challenging parts of living with a mental illness.

It’s a small but very important initiative, so next time you have an idea about changing something, whether it’s big or small, give it a try, take a small step, you might be surprised.

And back to Margaret Mead to finish “Always remember that you are absolutely unique. Just like everyone else. “