Hey there,
We’re so happy you’re here. Though there is a lot of stigma around mental illness in general, when it comes to schizophrenia, stigma makes it difficult for people to get the support they need. With over 24 million people diagnosed with schizophrenia worldwide, this is definitely an issue to be addressed.
What is a stigma?
First of all, stigma is the discrimination or negative attitudes towards a particular characteristic of a group. Turns out that the stigma surrounding schizophrenia has discouraged people with symptoms to not seek a diagnosis. Not only that, but it also prevents people from speaking openly about their experience.
How does stigma start and how can we overcome it?
Stigma comes from a lack of understanding or fear, often enhanced by inaccurate representations of a group of people. The stigma of schizophrenia stems from the lack of information on how to support it. This lack of support leads to the mistreatment and misunderstanding of people with schizophrenia.
We can address stigma in our community through creating education and awareness around schizophrenia. If you feel comfortable, start small by having conversations with people closer to you and talk about your experience. It might be the first step to moving past stigma within your Circle of Support.
Is it time for a name change?
Researchers in the field have proposed changing the name of schizophrenia to help combat the perception of it. Though some may agree, the root of the stigma comes from the education and awareness of the general public. What are your thoughts? Would you change the name of schizophrenia if you had the chance?
