A reason to hope and the means to cope

BCSS helps families affected by severe and persistent mental illnesses like schizophrenia.

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Need support? Find a support group near you.

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What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a severe and persistent mental illness that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It is classified as a psychotic disorder, meaning it involves a significant distortion of reality.

The exact cause of schizophrenia is not known, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurochemical factors. With appropriate treatment and support, many individuals with schizophrenia can manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.

Learn more

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Get help today

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Find Support Near You

BCSS has educators, resources, and support groups operating throughout BC, both in-person and virtually.

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Educational Resources

Learn about psychosis, treatments, how to communicate with someone experiencing delusions, and more.

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Programs & Services

BCSS offers a variety of programs and services, including family support groups, one-on-one support, and more.

Events & programs

Programs and services to support and educate individuals who have a loved one impacted by severe and persistent mental illness.

SEE EVENTS

Upcoming events

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Living with schizophrenia

BCSS offers resources for caregivers, friends and family members of people living with schizophrenia. We do not currently provide services for individuals living with schizophrenia, but we can help you get connected to the resources you need.

Resources

Empower yourself with knowledge

LOOK AGAIN PODCAST

Listen to the 'Look Again' podcast to learn about living with schizophrenia from people with valuable experience and expertise.

Listen now

Donations make a difference

Donations to the BC Schizophrenia Society help ensure that our vital programs and services can continue to support families affected by severe and persistent mental illness.

donate today

Stay informed

BCSS Board, BCSS News

Join the BCSS Board of Directors!

Are you passionate about supporting families who care for people with a mental illness? Would you like to…

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John Gray Receives Canadian Medical Association’s 2025 Owen Adams Award

The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) has named John Gray as the 2025 recipient of the Owen Adams Award of Honour,…

BCSS News, Northwest Region

Rest in Peace Judy

It is with sadness and fond memories that we learn of the passing of a beloved volunteer, Judy…

BC Partners for Mental Health and Substance Use Information

We acknowledge that the various land on which BCSS operates and supports families is the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of British Columbia’s Indigenous Peoples. We are honoured and privileged to share this land, and are committed to reconciliation, decolonization, and building relationships in our communities.