Life was extremely difficult for me before I was diagnosed and treated for paranoid schizophrenia. I never felt emotionally 'well' in my teens and twenties, but it wasn't until my thirties that the schizophrenia became full blown. My thinking was quite distorted, but at the time it seemed very real to me.

I began taking medication after being diagnosed. I became much more stable through both the medications and therapy. The delusions and voices went away. I worked part-time, and served on a local mental health advocacy committee. Through my work on the committee I became more educated about mental health services within the community of Abbotsford. I heard about an opportunity take a course to become a peer support worker. I felt that I had come such a long way from when I was ill. I was now at a place where I could help others who were experiencing the same things that I went through.

In the fall of 1996, I was accepted into the Peer Support Training course. I worked really hard, and I feel like I learned a lot through the course. We also did a three-month practicum. I have been a Peer Support Worker in Abbotsford ever since! It's been really good for my self-esteem to be able to give support to my clients. It helps to structure my week, and keep my own mental health on track.

by Susan

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