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One would wish good mental health all year round.
We need to recognise the importance of good health every day; to be mindful in these troubled, uncertain times especially.
The diagnosis labelling of ‘schizophrenia’ – the blame was once put on a schizophrenic mother by floundering psychiatrists – that is old school thinking.
Schizophrenia is a brain illness, affecting thoughts, behaviour and emotions.
It’s a jigsaw fragmentation, much like a Picasso painting with perception difficulties.
Many sufferers have creative outlets.
Stigma is rife although optimists say the community is more accepting today.
I would not wish this illness on anyone.
Imagine having your worst day every day – this is schizophrenia.
Schizophrenia is not contagious.
There is a lack of motivation. It takes courage and positive support to engage in every day interaction that so drains one’s energy. I emphasize it is not sheer laziness.
Isolation, suicidal ideations, acting out – all negative symptoms.
It takes counselling to help heal years of emotional wrong doing. A crisis can precipitate the need for assistance.
Sadly, other people may experience a chronic condition leading to long-term institutional placement. There is no cure as yet, only medication to lessen the symptoms.
However, “schizos” are no more a risk in society than your neighbourhood Joe Blogg.
So why do the radio and newspapers cruelly emphasize schizophrenics all in the one basket as dangerous?
My neighbour asks, ‘have you ever hurt yourself? Or, others hurt you?’
I reply, on what level? There are many stories.
Name supplied