Stigma Surrounding Schizophrenia

By: Pranesh Rajamuthiah

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Schizophrenia

The Stigma Surrounding

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What is the Stigma?

Meaning of Madness

Schizophrenia

• Schizophrenia affects how a person thinks, feels, and perceives the world
• Hallucinations (hearing voices and delusions)
• Strong beliefs that don't align with reality
• Characters with schizophrenia are often shown as dangerous, violent, or incapable of being a functioning member of society

What is the Harmful Impact of this Stigma?

Meaning of Madness

Schizophrenia

Workplace Discrimination

People with schizophrenia struggle to find jobs

Social Isolation

Worried and anxious about telling friends and family that they have schizophrenia

Reduced Access to Treatment

Individuals affected by the stigma are discouraged from seeking help

Truth: violent behavior in schizophrenia is rare and is linked to other factors instead

Myth: People with schizophrenia are violent

Truth: Many individuals can lead proper lives as long as they have the proper treatment

Myth: People with schizophrenia can't live normal lives

The stigma surrounding schizophrenia stems from myths rather than facts

Why is this Stigma Innacurate?

Meaning of Madness

Schizophrenia

How can we Combat this Stigma?

Meaning of Madness

Schizophrenia

• Take time to educate yourself and others
• Speak up when shows, movies, etc... spread harmful stereotypes
• Advocate for policies that support mental health in work and school enviornments
• Listen to people who have been directly affected by schizophrenia and its stigmas

Stigmas hurt everyone

Thank you for listening!

The Joker and A Beautiful Mind

• Focuses a lot on extremes of people with schizophrenia
• Dangerous criminals or unimaginable geniuses
• Movies, shows, etc... such as The Joker and A Beautiful Mind reinforce stereotypes revolving around schizophrenia