by Sharon Joag, MSW, LSW
Schizophrenia has been a stigmatized mental illness for hundreds of years, and that stigma sadly continues today. So, what is Schizophrenia? Schizophrenia is a mental illness characterized by delusions, hallucinations and disorganized thoughts and behaviors.
In fact, in the early 1900’s hydrotherapy treatment was used where patients were wrapped in sheets dipped in water ranging from 40 degrees to 100 degrees. The belief was that poisonous toxins in the body would be released through the skin through this hydrotherapy. Electroconvulsive treatments, insulin induced comas, and prefrontal lobotomies (1940’s and 1950’s) were the accepted therapies of that time. Now we know that these therapies where brutal and traumatic to those diagnosed with schizophrenia, and even exacerbated the illness.
However, the invention of new medications, modern cognitive therapies as well as family psychoeducation has really helped people who struggle with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. With education, families learn about schizophrenia and the importance of taking medications, and finding family and community support. It is important for those who have a diagnosis of schizophrenia and their families to understand that the illness does not go away. However, with community-based treatment and social support, a person with a diagnosis of schizophrenia can have an improved quality of life, and have meaningful relationships and contributions to family and community.
At NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Mercer Chapter, we provide family psychoeducation and caregiver support for the families in a group setting. Groups provide a place for families to exchange information regarding the illness and learn what works and what doesn’t work, and access community resources.
NAMI Mercer also has a group that meets twice a month, called The Hearing Voices group where those diagnosed with schizophrenia can meet in a safe and supportive environment. Knowing people with the same challenges can help people with schizophrenia recover from acute episodes, and help them to find coping strategies to avoid relapse and hospitalization.
What can you do on World Schizophrenia Awareness Day?
- The very first thing you can do today is to educate yourself and learn more about schizophrenia.
- Wear a silver ribbon to show your support for those diagnosed with the illness.
- Volunteer at NAMI Mercer and show your support.
- Advocate! Advocate for increased funding for mental health research, and for improved access to mental health care. Help to educate others and reduce the stigma surrounding schizophrenia.