Image: Ed Wood / Ed Wood, former mayor of Harrison Hot Springs.

By Ed Wood, Former Mayor of Harrison Hot Springs

OPINION

YOUR PERSPECTIVE: A Mayor’s experience with mental-health disclosure and stigma

Mar 12, 2026 | 12:46 PM

As a former Mayor of Harrison Hot Springs, I have always believed that leadership requires honesty — especially when it comes to mental health. In November 2023, I made the decision to publicly disclose a historical mental‑health condition from the 1990s. I did so because I wanted to lead by example. I wanted to show that transparency is not a weakness, and that public officials should not have to hide past challenges to serve their communities with integrity.

Unfortunately, what followed demonstrated how far we still have to go in reducing stigma.

Immediately after my disclosure, I felt I was treated differently within City Hall. The treatment, which included allegations against me, made it difficult for me to conduct my duties to my expectations.

The cumulative impact created a poisoned environment that made it impossible for me to continue in my role. I resigned as Mayor in June 2024. I filed a comprehensive human‑rights complaint with the BC Human Rights Tribunal in July 2024.

My purpose in speaking publicly is not to revisit past conflicts, but to highlight an issue that affects every community: how we treat people who choose to be open about mental health.

OPINION

YOUR PERSPECTIVE: A Mayor's experience with mental-health disclosure and stigma

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Leaders are often encouraged to “be transparent” and “reduce stigma.” But transparency only works when institutions respond with fairness, not fear; with respect, not suspicion. If a Mayor can face retaliation for disclosing a decades‑old condition, what message does that send to employees, volunteers, or young people who are struggling today?

Mental‑health openness should be met with support — not punishment. Our communities are stronger when people feel safe to speak honestly about their experiences, including those who serve in public office.

I remain committed to transparency, accountability, and the belief that leadership includes telling the truth about who we are. I hope that by sharing my experience, we can move toward a culture where disclosure is seen as an act of integrity, not a liability.

Edward Wood, Former Mayor, Village of Harrison Hot Springs

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of Fraser Valley Today or Pattison Media.