A bright child who loved music, science and sports, Graham suffered from insomnia and difficulty concentrating from an early age. In early grade 5, Graham was the victim of sexual abuse which led to a period of isolation, followed by a period of using drugs and alcohol in junior high. Later in his adolescence, Graham experienced his first depression followed by hypomania.
In his late 20s, Graham was finally diagnosed with bipolar disorder and able to get the treatment he needed. Finally, he began to accept himself for who he is.
Today, Graham lives happily with his wife and daughter. He’s an active member of his community, offering peer support to people living with mental illness. He also founded the Double Trouble Support Group and works as a patient rights advisor. Graham is the Nova Scotia representative for the Canadian Mental Health Association’s National Consumer Advisory Committee where he works on policies to increase understanding and reduce stigma associated with mental illness.
“Graham Hooper exemplifies hope – hope that no matter how ill one becomes, with commitment, support and perseverance, one can get healthy again.”
- Christina Wilson, Pillars of Health
Nominators: Christina Wilson, Pillars of Health & Margaret Murray, Canadian Mental Health Association Halifax-Dartmouth Branch