Pathways Serious Mental Illness Society

Pathways smis is a volunteer-led organisation that delivers its programs through it's peer-support model. Pathways serious mental illness society operates a family support resource centre (currently online) open 9-5 weekdays or by appointment. Families dealing with serious mental illness are offered personal support information and guidance in navigating the mental health system. An intensive 8-week education course for families taught by experienced trained family members is offered twice each year. Psmis also offers educational workshops and lectures throughout the year to supplement the course. Support groups for family members are held monthly currently online but area based regionally. They are promoted in vancouver west vancouver north vancouver sea to sky and all other areas of bc. Family peer support is available any time including after hours crisis advice. Quarterly public lectures and workshops are presented on topics related to serious mental illness. Several awareness events occur each year including an annual fundraising event and participation in community parades. Five issue of 'the notepad' newsletter and psmis advocacy bulletin are produced each year. The society's website www.pathwayssmi.org provides a wide range of information on mental illness specific conditions programs events and advocacy issues.