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CMHA NS and Early Psychosis Intervention Nova Scotia Team Up to Offer Free Virtual Info Session on Psychosis 

May 9, 2025

Psychosis 101: What’s Real and What’s Not” to be held ahead of Schizophrenia and Psychosis Awareness Day 

In recognition of Schizophrenia and Psychosis Awareness Day on May 24, the Canadian Mental Health Association – Nova Scotia Division (CMHA NS), in partnership with Early Psychosis Intervention Nova Scotia (EPINS), is hosting Psychosis 101: What’s Real and What’s Not, a special THRIVE learning session aimed at breaking down stigma and building understanding around psychosis. 

Led by Brittany Chisholm, Clinical Nurse Leader and Provincial Coordinator of EPINS, and Krista Ellsworth, Community Mental Health Nurse and Education Coordinator with the Nova Scotia Early Psychosis Program (NSEPP), this session will explore the early signs and symptoms of psychosis, available treatment options, and the importance of timely intervention. 

Participants will also hear from a young person with lived experience of psychosis and a supportive family member — firsthand perspectives that challenge common stereotypes and offer hope for recovery. 

“Psychosis is treatable,” says Brittany Chisholm. “People who have experienced psychosis or a psychotic disorder are living full, healthy lives while managing their symptoms. The earlier we recognize the signs; the sooner individuals and their loved ones can get the support they need” 

Johanne Thompson, Executive Director of CMHA NS-Division, adds that this session reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to mental health education and reducing stigma. 

“Education is a powerful tool. The more we understand mental health conditions, the more compassionate and responsive our communities become,” says Thompson. “This session is about giving people knowledge, practical tools, and hope.”  

Psychosis 101: What’s Real and What’s Not, will take place on Wednesday, May 21, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. (ADT). This free, virtual workshop will be hosted on Zoom, making it easy to join from anywhere in the province.

Register

About THRIVE

THRIVE is CMHA NS’s virtual learning centre that offers accessible, low-barrier mental health education for all Nova Scotians. No referral or diagnosis is required — and because it’s fully virtual, individuals can attend from anywhere in the province.  

About CMHA-NS Division 
The Canadian Mental Health Association-Nova Scotia Division (CMHA-NS) is one of the oldest mental health charities in the country. Through advocacy, education, engagement, and accessible community-based services, we work to break down systemic barriers, challenge stigma, elevate the voices of lived experience, and ensure equitable access to mental health and substance use supports.  

Our programs address critical issues including housing insecurity, suicide prevention, peer support, education, and social inclusion—meeting people where they are and walking alongside them in their journey. Together with our branches, we are building a future where mental health is recognized not just as a service, but as a fundamental human right and a shared community priority for all Nova Scotians. 

About Early Psychosis Intervention Nova Scotia (EPINS) 
Early Psychosis Intervention Nova Scotia (EPINS) is a provincial service and is a collaboration between Nova Scotia Health and the IWK. The goal of the service is to make sure that people and their loved ones can access evidence-based early phase psychosis care in their home community. 

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