SASKATOON, Sask. — For years, Adam Buchko has lived with the stigma surrounding mental illness, which affected his confidence and daily life. He was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder in 2010 and later struggled with substance use.
Buchko said that since his diagnosis, he has felt embarrassed and worried that others were judging, rejecting or misunderstanding him because of his condition.
He was later introduced to the Schizophrenia Society of Saskatchewan, and its Saskatoon office helped him realize something important. He shared his experience at the non-profit group's Saskatoon office opening on Friday, Nov. 6.
“I want to share how this organization has been a blessing, a lifesaver, and tremendous support of confidence, friendship, and purpose in my life. My diagnosis is a part of my story, but it does not define who I am,” said Buchko.
“What once brought me embarrassment has become something I can use to educate others, challenge misconceptions, and inspire hope. And personally, most importantly, I've learned to challenge my own internalized stigma. I'm no longer afraid to tell people that I live with mental illness.”
Buchko is a musician and the Saskatoon Philharmonic Orchestra's first bassoonist. His interests also include floral design, dancing and photography. He now volunteers with the same organization that supported him through his illness, working as a peer support worker and one of its Stigma Busters.
A Stigma Buster is part of the Schizophrenia Society's public awareness and education program, which aims to reduce stigma, fear and misconceptions about schizophrenia and other mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder.
“Through the partnership program, I've had the privilege of becoming a stigma buster, sharing my lived experience with students, healthcare professionals, and the community. Every time I stand in front of an audience, I gain confidence,” said Buchko.
He added that the society's support has changed his life, giving him a welcoming environment where he can connect with others.
“This group has generally been a lifesaver for me. Living with social anxiety can make connecting with others difficult. The group has given me a safe and welcoming environment to practice exposure therapy in my own space. I can come and go as I need to, share as much or as little as I want, and be myself,” said Buchko.
Government support
Advanced Education Minister Ken Cheveldayoff, who represented Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr, said increasing the number of students and supporting those who want to pursue careers as counsellors and social workers are also part of the government's plan.
“That's something that we're certainly keeping our ear to the ground and listening to where the demand is, and I've had several meetings with Minister Carr to talk about mental health and how we can better train individuals, provide more opportunities, and that's something that is something [the Saskatchewan Polytechnic] is making a top priority.”
He added that Carr's ministry has also announced $574,000 in funding for the Schizophrenia Society to continue its programs supporting people living with mental illness and reducing stigma.
“We're doing to make people more comfortable talking about schizophrenia and getting away from the stigma as well. They are very much focused on removing stigmas, with the Stigma Busters. We’re excited about how they are going to work and make a difference immediately,” said Cheveldayoff.
