Strengthening Families Together (SFT) is a program that provides knowledge, support, and tools for families to better cope with serious mental illnesses.

Participating families learn about the impacts of stigma as well as information about psychosis, schizophrenia, mood disorders, and other severe and persistent mental illnesses.

Topics covered include treatments for mental illness, side effects, and the impacts of substance use. Sessions also cover communication skills, stress management tools, self-care planning, crisis planning, and family advocacy. This program also provides information about the BC mental health system.

Through discussion and group exercises, families build supportive connections with others who share similar experiences and learn how to access services and resources available across the province.

Strengthening Families Together – Victoria (In-Person)

• Date: Saturdays – November 7, 14, and 21, 2026
• Time: 9:30 am – 1:30 pm
• Location: G. R. Pearkes Rec Centre, 3100 Tillicum Rd., Victoria, BC
• For more information or to register, please contact Katie Nickerson at vimanager@bcss.org