The cover story in our Winter 2010 issue dealt with schizophrenia and violence, and the erroneous criminal myths that are associated with the illness.

Schizophrenia is quite possibly the most misunderstood mental illness know to mankind; most people think that ‘schizophrenia’ is synonymous with ‘split personality disorder’ and violence. That’s because a good part of the population takes its cue from the media where, all too often, bad press prevails over good when it comes to the mentally ill.

The fact is individuals with schizophrenia who are being treated are no more dangerous than the general population. Note that I said ‘who are being treated.’

People who are not being treated are a different story. In my own life, when I was psychotic (or out of reality), I drove dangerously, I turned the furniture over in my landlady’s house. I walked over cars, I banged on a random door, and I even stole a drink from a convenience store. All of these things were totally out of character for me and I remember asking God at the time to please not let me kill anyone.

Dr. E. Fuller Torrey and Dr. Barry Jones (both quoted in our Winter 2010 issue) agree that most suicides and homicides committed by the mentally ill are preventable if the individuals responsible for the acts are treated. But non-adherence is an issue of its own.

The most common reason for non-adherence is a lack of insight, which itself can be a symptom of schizophrenia. Therefore, it becomes difficult for many patients to act responsibly.

The key to eliminating the stigma and stereotypes surrounding schizophrenia—and its reputation as a violent illness—can be overcome with education, and that can’t start early enough. We need more education about mental illness (and early detection) in our schools.

The Winter 2010 issue is available through our Website or by calling toll-free 1-866-672-3038.

Thursday 29 July 2010 - 00:07:07

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