Better health is in the bag

Bernice Hirakida

Bernice Hirakida says she’s healthier and happier as a result of her employment at SEED (Self-Esteem & Employment Development) offered at the Kettle Friendship Society.

SEED assists individuals with chronic mental health issues to build the vocational skills, confidence and stamina necessary to make the transition from unemployment to satisfying work opportunities. SEED receives funding from the VCH SMART Fund.

“This has given me more confidence,” says Bernice. “I have found success”

Bernice came to SEED by way of her employment counselor at the Canadian Mental Health Association. She had been out of the work force for 12 years when she began the training at SEED.

Bernice has learned how to turn salvaged street banners and other recycled material into beautiful and useful totes and lunch bags. An organization called Common Thread sources the fabric to convert into colourful and durable products and arranges high-volume contracts for the sale of the items.

Bernice says working in the program has raised her self esteem and made her a happier person.

“I feel I can take some chances and try other things because of this program… not just job wise either… relationships too.” Bernice adds that the staff of the SEED program are relaxed and funny and very supportive.

More about how programs like SEED improve health

There’s plenty of literature linking employment to better health.Employment is recognized by the World Health Organization as a key determinant of health, enhancing quality of life, self-worth, independence and involvement in the community. For those with mental illness, strengthened social support networks lead to increased self-esteem, social skills and cognitive function; lower incidence of severe mental illness episodes; fewer hospitalizations; and improved recovery. See Links between Social Support and Improved Health Outcomes (report).