Across cultures and throughout history, music has been a universal language that almost everyone can connect with.
It’s one that allows people to express their emotions, tell stories, and unite in moments of joy and grief. At BCSS, we often hear about how creative expression – whether through visual art, performing arts, writing, and/or music – can help people process experiences, strengthen coping skills, and feel less alone.
This year on May 23, in honour of Schizophrenia and Psychosis Awareness Day, BCSS is hosting Voices of Hope, focused on creativity and its role in wellbeing, recovery, and community building. Through art, storytelling, music, and conversation, we will explore how creative outlets help people reconnect with themselves, express what can be difficult to say in words, and build meaningful social connections.
The power of collective voices
One of the groups performing will be The Highs and Lows Choir.
Based in Vancouver, this inspiring choir is made up of people living with mental illness, along with allies who believe in the power of music to bring people together. The choir offers a supportive, stigma-free space where members can share their voices, gain confidence, and experience the joy of contributing to something larger than themselves.
Their performances remind us of the resilience, creativity, and courage that exist within our communities; especially among those affected by schizophrenia, psychosis, and other serious mental illnesses.
When people sing together, they listen closely to one another, breathe in unison, and blend their individual voices into a collective sound. This shared creative process can deepen relationships, build trust, and foster a sense of community; elements that are essential in supporting mental health and recovery.
For many people living with schizophrenia, psychosis, and other severe and persistent mental illnesses, creativity in the form of music can be grounding, joyful, and empowering. Groups like the Highs and Lows Choir highlight that conversations about mental illness are not only about the challenges and issues faced, but they are also about creating hope, nurturing human connections, and building personal resilience.
We’re honoured to welcome them as performers for this year’s Voices of Hope: From Expression to Understanding. Their performance will help set the tone for an afternoon centered on compassion, understanding, and the many ways creative expression can help us support one another.
If you’d like to join us for this free event – whether online or in person at the Cultch Historic Theatre in Vancouver – you can learn more and register below. We look forward to sharing this meaningful experience with you!