Mental Illness Awareness Week, held annually during October, is Canada’s national campaign aimed at enhancing awareness of mental illness and substance use health, reducing related stigmas and illuminating the real experiences of those affected. In recognition of this, we’re sharing Roger Desroches’s compelling story about his journey with mental illness and substance use. Together we can open the eyes of Canadians to the reality of mental illness.
“I’ll be honest with you; this is the best place I could’ve ever ended up. Waypoint saved my life.”
Roger Desroches’s story is a testament to the power of specialized mental health and addiction care and the profound impact a compassionate and dedicated health care team can have on someone’s life. His journey from despair to hope is a reminder that no one should face mental illness alone.
Born and raised in Penetanguishene, Roger worked for most of his life at a local factory. Life took an unexpected turn when he suffered a severe injury on the job. The injury led him down a path of mental and physical turmoil, leaving him feeling isolated and desperate.
When Roger first arrived at Waypoint more than two decades ago, he didn’t understand what mental illness was, but he knew he needed help. “I came to the hospital and I said to the doctor, ‘I don’t care how long it takes, if it takes two weeks, fix me.’ I ended up staying for nine months.”
Roger began his journey on the Acute Assessment Program, which provides assessment, specialized short-term crisis intervention, risk assessment, rapid stabilization, symptom reduction and active treatment for people whose illness requires more mental health support than can be provided in the community.
During his nine months at Waypoint, Roger formed a deep connection with the hospital and its staff. He was diagnosed with clinical depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The care he received went beyond treating his symptoms; Waypoint’s dedicated team, including nurses, psychiatrists, psychologists and support staff, helped him reclaim his life. The hospital gave him hope and a second chance at life.
One of the most impactful aspects of Roger’s recovery was his involvement in the Georgianwood Program for Concurrent Disorders. After successfully completing the 90-day program himself, he was asked to run a Double Trouble group to help those struggling with both mental illness and addiction. Running the group gave Roger a sense of purpose and belonging. He was part of the hospital community.
“I ran the Double Trouble program for 10 years, and it all came from being in this hospital,” said Roger who has overcome addiction to alcohol and prescription pain medication.
The Georgianwood Program treats addiction and mental illness at the same time by the same team in a cohesive way through group-based skill development. Treatment includes cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behavioural therapy, skills training for major mental illnesses, Seeking Safety from substances, and others.
Despite the challenges he faced, including suicide attempts and readmissions, Roger’s journey was one of transformation. He went from feeling like life had taken everything from him to finding a glimmer of hope that allowed him to rebuild his life. After leaving the hospital, he stayed connected to Waypoint. He continued to see his psychiatrist as an outpatient, and the hospital’s support remained a crucial part of his life. “I just stayed connected because I knew how good the place was for me. I owe my life to this hospital. This place helped me stay alive. That’s the way I felt; it’s the way I feel today.”
Today, Roger is doing well, still living in the area. He rediscovered his love for music and started going to church again. He continues to take life one day at a time, with the knowledge that the hospital is there for him if he ever needs it again. He’s grateful for the support he received and the second chance at life.
For anyone struggling with mental illness or addiction, Roger’s message is clear: “Get help. The more help you can get, the better. I was in a place where there was no help. Today, I’m not alone. I’ve got friends and I’m back living my life, and it’s because of Waypoint.”
If you or someone you know requires immediate support for a mental health or addiction concern, there are resources and services available.
For immediate support, available 24/7:
- Call or text 9-8-8: Canada’s Suicide Crisis Helpline
- Call 705-728-5044 or 1-888-893-8333 (toll-free): The Canadian Mental Health Association’s Mental Health Crisis and Information Line
- Kid’s Help Phone: Text 686868 or call 1-800-668-6868
- Call 8-1-1: Health811 connects you to health care resources
- Call 9-1-1 or visit your closest Emergency Department
For non-urgent support, please consider:
- Ontario Structured Psychotherapy program: Free therapy and counselling services
- 1door.ca: 24/7 referrals to free counselling services
- CFS Counselling + Wellbeing: local counselling and therapy services
- Togetherall: 24/7 access to mental health practitioners
- Patient/Client and Family Council: Peer Support Services – call 705-526-4569
- Simcoe County Suicide Awareness Council: A grass-roots group of volunteers united around suicide awareness, prevention, support, and education – visit hopeequalslife.ca