Overcoming Schizophrenia

World Schizophrenia Day is important because it validates the importance of spreading awareness about people living with schizophrenia. Still, the truth is schizophrenia is NOT a personality disorder. Schizophrenia is a thought disorder that can make it difficult to speak, think clearly, and problem solve. It is made up of a wide range of symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and psychosis. Unlike other illnesses, people living with schizophrenia have more challenges to treatment and recovery. The stigma alone, discourages countless people from getting diagnosed, and perpetuates the suffering in silence.  World Schizophrenia Day is a powerful opportunity to promote the truth that recovery is possible.  In the updated blog book, What’s on My Mind? Volume I, Revised Edition, I wrote a poem, “Remember, Me.” It captures the human perspective on living with schizophrenia. Simply put, we are human, too. Remember, Me. by Ashley Smith Will you remember me when I am not myself? ...

Generally, people develop compassion for others who have a health condition, however, this is not the case when it comes to schizophrenia. World Schizophrenia Day (May 24th) is our opportunity to learn the facts about schizophrenia, and to reduce the fear, myths, and stigma that prolongs widespread negative perceptions. Schizophrenia is a widely misunderstood brain disorder that creates significant challenges for people. People with this the condition may experience a wide range of debilitating symptoms such as false beliefs and perceptions, bizarre behaviors, and confusion.      World Schizophrenia Day was established to honor Dr. Philippe Pinel. Pinel acknowledged the humanity of his patients. He ordered staff to remove the chains and advocated for better treatment. Frequently, people identify schizophrenia as a personality disorder, which is a myth. Schizophrenia is a thought disorder characterized by psychosis, which is a break in reality. Schizophrenia is not dissoci...

World Schizophrenia Day, May 24, 2020 There is a universal unspoken code that negates the truth about schizophrenia, it is stigma. Stigma comes in a wide range of negative beliefs that uphold myths as facts. As an individual living with schizophrenia I experienced stigma first-hand.  It was hurtful and unfair. I have been labelled "demonic." One of the most common questions I get from men I date when I decide to disclose is "are you violent?"  Stigma translates into fear, discrimination, negative labels, and ignorant beliefs. Countless persons do not understand what schizophrenia is and do not know what recovery can look like and thus, continue to place me and my peers into a box with limitations. Stigma is perpetuated by different groups especially some religious people, world wide influential platforms such as Hollywood, and a magnitude of people all over the world.  There are several myths about schizophrenia, here are the most common: Myth #1: S...