A easy-to-read yet comprehensive primer for individuals with schizophrenia---and their families, friends, neighbors, colleagues, clinicians and loved ones
• Schizophrenia is twice as common as Alzheimer’s disease or HIV/AIDS.
• Schizophrenia is a no-fault, equal-opportunity brain disorder---that is NOT caused by poor parenting.
• On average, it takes 8 years between the time symptoms of schizophrenia first appear, and the time they are diagnosed and treated.
• Only one-third of individuals with schizophrenia receive treatment.
• Like other chronic illnesses, such as arthritis or diabetes, the symptoms of schizophrenia can be managed with appropriate treatment and support.
• Early identification reduces the risk of disability and improves treatment outcomes.
With the rapid pace of psychiatric research, the recent passage of federal mental health parity legislation, new imaging technologies and genetic techniques, improved treatments, and a growing advocacy consumer and family advocacy movement---the future for recovery for people with schizophrenia has never been more hopeful.
Advocacy, information and empowerment pave the road to recovery---and lay the foundation for people with schizophrenia to lead lives filled with happiness and meaning.
