Ongoing Care Transforms Zach Schnitzer’s Mental Health Journey

Since his first admission in 2022, Zach Schnitzer has credited the continuous psychiatric care provided by Health Sciences Centre (HSC) for his mental health recovery. Schnitzer, who has been an inpatient at HSC twice, describes this continuity of care as a crucial factor in his healing process. “The continuity was a gamechanger,” he says.

Initially admitted in June 2022, Schnitzer faced a perfect storm of challenges that included a stressful job change, the responsibilities of a growing family with a second child, and the global impact of COVID-19. He recalls, “I couldn’t cope with the extra demands, I fell apart. I was overwhelmed, anxious, having suicidal thoughts.” The culmination of these pressures led him to seek help.

Transformative Treatment at HSC

Upon his admission, Schnitzer received care from Dr. Cesar Rona, a psychiatrist he continues to consult as an outpatient. Dr. Rona diagnosed Schnitzer with ADHD during their first meeting and recommended a comprehensive review of his medications. “I was already taking antidepressants that had probably outlived their efficacy,” Schnitzer explains. The team prescribed a new antidepressant, an ADHD stimulant, and sleep medication tailored to his needs.

During his two-week stay at HSC, Schnitzer engaged in daily therapy sessions with Dr. Rona and participated in activities that promoted his well-being, such as using the gym and accessing counseling services. “There was always someone I could talk to,” he reflects, highlighting the importance of the supportive environment.

After being discharged, Schnitzer resumed his outpatient treatment with Dr. Rona and gradually reintegrated into his job. Unfortunately, the relief was short-lived. By early 2023, he began experiencing overwhelming feelings again, partly due to the ADHD stimulant’s side effects. In March 2023, he was readmitted to HSC, this time under the care of Dr. Jessica Enns.

A Call for Healing and Support

Dr. Enns emphasized the importance of taking time to heal, equating a mental health crisis to a physical one. “A mental health crisis is like having a stroke,” Schnitzer notes. “You need time to heal, recuperate. This isn’t a quick fix.” As he prepared for discharge from his second admission, HSC staff facilitated a gradual return home, allowing him to gradually increase his time outside the facility while providing ongoing support.

Family involvement played a vital role in Schnitzer’s recovery. The care team included his wife in treatment discussions, reinforcing the importance of a support network. “They always explained things, solicited our opinion. That was really helpful,” he recalls.

Schnitzer has returned to Dr. Rona for outpatient care, which he describes as “phenomenal.” His experience at HSC has inspired him to give back, and he has made a donation to the 2025 Fund-A-Need campaign aimed at funding new equipment for the Emergency Department. “There are so many people in Manitoba struggling with mental health,” he states. “It’s incredibly important to give back. I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for the care I received.”

To support the HSC Foundation and ensure quality mental health care for all Manitobans, interested individuals can reach out at 204-515-5612 or toll-free at 1-800-679-8493.