Quilt of Honour

• Many children have mental health problems. These problems are real, painful, and sometimes severe.
• At any given time, one in five children suffers from a mental health problem.
• One in ten children seriously considers suicide.
• The Quilt of Honour has been created to honour all children with mental illness  those who are alive and those who have died.
• The design of the quilt was inspired by the old-fashioned paper-doll chain.
• The red and white figures in the chain represent children.
• The figures holding hands represent children who have received help for their mental health problems.
• The figures standing alone represent children who are waiting for help.
• The white figures represent children who have taken their own lives.

One of the biggest challenges facing children with mental illness and their families is the shame and stigma of mental health problems. Fear of stigma, and the resulting discrimination, discourages people from getting the help they need. Nine courageous children and their families have agreed to let their names stand on the Quilt of Honour. Their stories; the story of the quilt; and the people behind the quilt are profiled in the brochure below.

Susan Hess is available to display the Quilt of Honour and speak about Children’s Mental Health issues. If you are interested in having the Quilt visit your community please contact Susan Hess at: susan.hess@sympatico.ca