What can society do?

People who experience schizophrenic breakdown have to cope with terrifying experiences. The vast majority of them do this with dignity, courage and great humanity. They need to be able to live their lives as ordinary citizens, taking on the responsibilities as well as the freedoms of that role. This includes being able to work, learn and take part in leisure activities in the same way as other people can. Popular prejudice often prevents this – for instance, through misinformed campaigns to stop vital supportive residential facilities being built in particular neighbourhoods, or through bullying behaviour in the workplace.  These are exacerbated by media reports that persistently link violence with mental illness.

There are three ways in which a modern society can improve life for those people affected by schizophrenia:

1. Through public education, reducing ignorance and prejudice about the disorder.
2. By implementing anti-discrimination measures, so that affected people are allowed to carry out their daily lives without fear of society.
3. By improving the therapeutic services available, and ensuring that treatment programs are carried out in partnership with the individual, their families and friends, and an adequately resourced team. This partnership should have access to the appropriate resources such as employment, training, education, leisure and accommodation.
   
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