Today is World Schizophrenia Awareness Day 2021.
The theme this year is “Discover better mental health”. The purpose of this day is to spread awareness about schizophrenia and eradicate the myths and stigma around schizophrenia and psychosis.
Today, our message is one of hope. If you or a loved one have received a diagnosis of schizophrenia, know that it can be successfully managed with the right supports and the earlier it is detected and treated, the better the chance of recovery.
The love and support of family and friends plays an important role in schizophrenia recovery. We have groups for both people with lived experience of schizophrenia and for families/ relatives/ friends supporting a loved one living with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. (New online groups for the summer months will be announced shortly.)
If you or a loved one would like more information and support around a schizophrenia diagnosis, read more on our website or contact our Information and Support Officer in your region.
Lived Experience
It is so important that we hear the voices of those with lived experience of a diagnosis of schizophrenia to help to create awareness, educate and reduce the stigma associated with enduring mental health difficulties.
On World Schizophrenia Day, Emma Grattan shares her experience of living with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. You can read Emma’s story here.
Lyanne also shares her story of living with a diagnosis of schizophrenia and how her friends, dancing, her dogs and the support she receives from Shine is a major part of her recovery. You can watch Lyanne’s story here.