Ongoing Psychiatric Care Transforms Zach Schnitzer’s Life

Continued psychiatric care has played a crucial role in the recovery of Zach Schnitzer, who has been receiving treatment from HSC since his initial admission in 2022. Schnitzer describes this ongoing support as transformative, stating, “The continuity was a gamechanger.” He has been an inpatient at HSC on two occasions in recent years.

Schnitzer has grappled with a familial predisposition to anxiety and depression. After a significant job change, the stress of a new child, and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, he found himself overwhelmed. “I couldn’t cope with the extra demands, I fell apart. I was overwhelmed, anxious, having suicidal thoughts. I couldn’t make decisions, couldn’t sleep,” he recalls.

In June 2022, Schnitzer was admitted to HSC, where he was placed under the care of Dr. Cesar Rona, a psychiatrist he continues to see as an outpatient. “He diagnosed me with ADHD pretty much on the spot,” he explains. At the time, Schnitzer was on antidepressants that had likely lost their effectiveness. The HSC psychiatric team conducted a thorough review of his medications, introducing a new antidepressant, an ADHD stimulant, and sleep medication.

Schnitzer appreciated the collaborative approach taken by the team. “I couldn’t think straight and had a lot of anxiety,” he says, highlighting that his wife was included in appointments. The team consistently explained their decisions and sought input from both of them.

During his two-week stay at HSC, Schnitzer engaged in daily therapy sessions with Dr. Rona. He utilized the gym facilities and connected with other mental health professionals for additional counseling. “There was always someone I could talk to,” he says, emphasizing the supportive environment.

After his discharge, Schnitzer continued outpatient therapy with Dr. Rona and gradually returned to work. Unfortunately, he soon faced renewed challenges. The ADHD stimulant had become too stimulating, leading to sleep issues, and his anxiety and depression resurfaced. In March 2023, he was readmitted to HSC, this time under the care of Dr. Jessica Enns. She underscored the seriousness of his condition, stating, “A mental health crisis is like having a stroke. You need time to heal, recuperate. This isn’t a quick fix.”

As he prepared for discharge, Schnitzer experienced a gradual reintegration process. “You go for a couple of hours, then four hours, six, and you’re always able to contact the ward if you’re struggling at home,” he explains. The team included his family in crafting a safety plan, which he found effective for his return to the community.

Schnitzer once again resumed care with Dr. Rona as an outpatient. “He’s been phenomenal. To have that outpatient treatment continue has been so great,” he says.

Impressed by the quality of care he received at HSC, Schnitzer has taken steps to give back. He made his first donation to the 2025 Fund-A-Need campaign, aimed at acquiring new equipment for the Emergency Department. “There are so many people in Manitoba struggling with mental health, and new approaches that need funding for research and development,” he states. “Mental health is complicated; HSC wants to be on the cutting edge of treatment. It’s incredibly important to give back. I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for the care I received.”

For those interested in supporting the HSC Foundation and ensuring that all Manitobans receive the best possible care, please call 204-515-5612 or (toll-free) 1-800-679-8493.