Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea Paquette
Hi Andrea, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey began over two decades ago when I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at the age of 25. It was a challenging time, but I found strength in sharing my story. I realized that by being open about my struggles, I could help others feel less alone. This passion for mental health advocacy led me to found the Bipolar Disorder Society of BC in 2010, which has since evolved into the Stigma-Free Mental Health Society (SFMHS).
Through SFMHS, we have reached over 100,000+ students across Canada with our Stigma-Free School Program, providing vital mental health education and resources. Our programs focus on breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health and empowering individuals with the tools they need to thrive.
I feel that my journey has been one of resilience and continuous learning. Each challenge has been an opportunity to grow and make a greater impact. I am incredibly grateful for the support of my team, our partners, and the community. Together, we are making strides toward a world where mental health is understood, accepted, and treated with compassion.
It’s been a humbling experience, and I am driven by the stories of those we’ve helped and the promise of a brighter future for mental health advocacy. My mission is to continue expanding our reach, particularly into rural and underserved communities, ensuring that everyone has access to the support and resources they need.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey has been anything but smooth, yet it is precisely these struggles that have shaped who I am today. Being diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 25 was a turning point in my life. I faced the overwhelming challenge of managing my mental health while confronting the stigma associated with it. There were days when it felt like an uphill battle, and times when I questioned whether I had the strength to continue.
One of the most significant struggles was accepting my diagnosis and finding the courage to speak openly about it. There were moments of deep despair, but I was fortunate to have a supportive network of family and friends who stood by me. Their unwavering belief in me helped me navigate the darkest times.
One of the most challenging aspects has been battling the pervasive stigma around mental health. There were times when people questioned my abilities because of my diagnosis, but I used these doubts as fuel to prove that individuals with mental health conditions can lead, inspire, and create meaningful change.
Despite these challenges, I consider myself one of the lucky ones. I have had the opportunity to turn my struggles into a source of strength and inspiration. Through connecting with thousands of individuals who have shared their own stories of resilience, this collective strength has been incredibly empowering.
The road has not been smooth, but it has been profoundly rewarding. Each struggle has been a stepping stone, leading to greater awareness, understanding, and acceptance of mental health. I am committed to continuing this journey, advocating for those who feel voiceless, and ensuring that everyone has access to the support they need. My story is a testament to the power of resilience and the incredible impact we can have when we choose to rise above our struggles.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As President and Co-Founder of the Stigma-Free Mental Health Society (SFMHS), we are dedicated to combating stigma, promoting mental health awareness, and providing valuable resources to individuals and communities across Canada. We create and deliver educational programs, resources, and support systems aimed at reducing the stigma surrounding mental health. Our initiatives include the Stigma-Free School Program, which provides a mental health toolkit and live virtual presentations for educators, students, and parents, and the Rural Mental Wellness Program, which focuses on bringing mental health information and peer support training to rural and Indigenous communities.
My passion for mental health advocacy is deeply rooted in my personal experience, having been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. This journey has taught me the immense value of openness and authenticity in leadership. Through my work, I aim to inspire others to seek help, embrace their mental health journey, and support those around them. Seeing students, educators, and community members engage with our resources, share their own stories, and take proactive steps towards mental wellness is profoundly rewarding. One of my proudest moments was the successful digital launch of our Student Mental Health Toolkit, which has reached thousands across Canada and provided much-needed support during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2024, we rebranded from the Stigma-Free Society to the Stigma-Free Mental Health Society (SFMHS) to more accurately reflect our core mission and the breadth of our work. This rebrand has allowed us to clarify our focus and expand our reach, ensuring that our name encapsulates our dedication to mental health education and stigma reduction.
My approach to mental health advocacy is holistic and inclusive. I strive to create programs and resources with the SFMHS team that cater to diverse communities, understanding that each individual’s experience with mental health is unique. By fostering an environment of empathy, understanding, and acceptance, I aim to drive meaningful change and promote mental wellness on a broader scale. Through SFMHS, I continue to push boundaries, challenge misconceptions, and inspire others to join the movement towards a stigma-free society.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
In the next 5-10 years, I see the mental health realm undergoing significant and positive transformations. There will be a greater emphasis on early intervention and prevention, with schools, workplaces, and communities adopting proactive approaches to mental wellness. The digital transformation will continue to grow, making virtual therapy, online support groups, and digital tools more accessible. A holistic and integrated model will emerge, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Advances in technology will enable personalized mental health care, leading to better outcomes. Efforts to reduce stigma and raise awareness will gain momentum, while mental health care will become more inclusive and culturally sensitive. Peer support will play a more prominent role, and policy and funding changes will support the growing demand for mental health services. These shifts indicate a promising future where support is more accessible, inclusive, and effective. At the Stigma-Free Mental Health Society, we are committed to innovating and expanding our programs to meet the evolving needs of the communities we serve.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://stigmafreementalhealth.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stigmafreementalhealth/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stigmafreementalhealthsociety
- Twitter: https://x.com/StigmaFreeMH
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCT5CBWa2SGStvBGXH4GgUng
