Michel Mpambara, Guy Latraverse and Margaret Trudeau expressed their thoughts on mental illnesses. Firstly, Mpambara, comedian extraordinaire, highlighted the importance of raising awareness and informing others of mental illness. Secondly, Guy Latraverse, President of the Board of Directors of Revivre, an organization devoted toward people living with anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder took the stage. Guy had the audience members captured by his personal recollection of the confusion and depression experienced with the onset of bipolar disorder. Thirdly, Margaret Trudeau, Canadian author and advocate of mental health also spoke of her personal experience with bipolar disorder and underlined the important role of mental health professionals in her recovery.
The 5km walk around downtown Montreal stopped traffic and raised eyebrows. Pedestrians and weekend shoppers were all trying to catch a glimpse of the signs, banners and proud faces of those participating in the walk- myself included.
All in all the walk was a huge success. The event is a symbol of hope, as it helps people affected by mental health disorders realize they are not alone. There are many organizations in the Montreal area that are devoted to people affected by mental illness (see the list below). So tell your friends that Montreal will Walk for Mental Health next October and the October after that until everyone is educated on the subject of mental health and feels comfortable enough to step forward to get the help they need to recover.
| Agence OMETZ | Douglas Mental Health University Institute Foundation |
| AMI Québec | Forward House |
| CSSS Cavendish | L'Abri en Ville |
| CSSS de la Montagne | Revivre |
| Cummings Centre |
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