To Fight Stigma Against Schizophrenia, Start Young with Better Education About It
A new research report suggests that bringing a person who has schizophrenia into school classrooms to talk with students might decrease stigma and improve attitudes towards people with the illness. Additionally, since schizophrenia may develop in a person's teen and young adult years while they are still in a school environment, decreasing stigma in this age group may also prepare students for helping their peers who might be developing it.
The study conducted in Austria, written up in Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica, investigated different aspects of the attitudes of groups of people towards people suffering from schizophrenia. At the same time, an attempt was made to find factors influencing these attitudes – especially the willingness to contact people suffering from schizophrenia – as well as to obtain information on how to reduce stigma and discrimination. People were categorized as being in one of 3 groups - the general public, professionals working in the field of psychiatry/mental health and relatives of mentally ill people.
The researchers found great differences in attitude towards people suffering from schizophrenia between groups: these included different causal attributions to schizophrenia, different attitudes concerning the perceived success of the treatment of schizophrenia, different fears concerning perceived dangerousness and a different willingness to interact voluntarily with schizophrenia patients.
Attitudes differed between groups according beliefs about the cause of schizophrenia, perceived success of the treatment of schizophrenia, different fears concerning perceived dangerousness and a different willingness to interact voluntarily with schizophrenia patients.
The investigators hope the results of this study can help shape future anti-stigma programs. Because age and education seem to influence whether people are open to contact with those with schizophrenia, better education about schizophrenia, and especially better education directed at youth might be particularly helpful. This has been shown to be true when implemented in other countries.
The study's authors say,
"Schizophrenia being a disorder that commonly befalls younger patients, better-informed students would not only have a better understanding for people with schizophrenia, but also a higher likelihood of detecting this disorder in early stages in their peers, thereby indirectly helping to improve overall outcomes."
Thanks goes to CopperKettle for pointing out this article.
Read the article: Stigma Can Arise From Surprising Sources
Original Source Abstract: Patterns of Social Distance Towards People Suffering From Schizophrenia in Austria: A Comparison Between the General Public, Relatives, and Mental Health Staff
Related Reading:
Posted by Jeanie Wolfson at June 24, 2007 07:30 AM
More Information on
Schizophrenia Advocacy
How have I been stopping the stigma in a small way. I have been suffering from Schizophrenia since 1991.I am 38 years old now and still fighting it everyday. I started using the word SchizoFRIENDia in every converstaion that Schizophrenia was mentioned. You will not believe how many people are shocked ! saying. " I never knew the word friend was there." I guarentee in years the word Schizophrenia can be thought of diferently,if it is always emphasized with FRIEND. I created three .com websites with the word schizofriendia in all. I am willing to donate them to any organization that can use them to make hats, self help bracelets, shirts and always utilize the word FRIEND. I don't want a penny. I would just love to know that the joys of all suffering from Schizophrenia can becaome a reality.
(Meaning)
Schizofriendia : Schizo (mind) friend (body) ia (is accepted). An individual who has been diagnosed with the brain disease Schizophrenia. One who has found or is searching for a friend in a world that accepts them for who they are and not because they have Schizophrenia.
(History)
Schizofriendia : The word Schizofriendia was created as a multi dimensional word by James Anthony Lombardo who is a life time Psychology student, Teacher, Inventor and also suffers from the Brain Disease Schizophrenia. The word Schizofriendia would be very easy to derive by taking the word Phren in Schizophrenia and replacing it with the similar sounding friend. Though it wasn't so simple making the word Schizofriendia in his words. Never understanding what was truly wrong in my mind. The constant paranoia, delusions, hallucinations and the separation from the world and reality caused the total feeling of non acceptance. The word Schizofriendia is actually three separated parts.Shizo - FRIEND - ia. The word Schizo is a partial word involved in a mental separation. Which he attributed "Schizo" to the MIND. Then the word "Friend" meaning a person which one knows and who is very fond of. That of a "true" friend exists outside the mind. Although through other illnesses and treumatic hapenings, created friends can get you through some very hard times, Especially the times when isolated or alone. Having Schizophrenia keeps you inside your mind to often though. The most important key to having hope and finding happiness is supportive friends and family. One who didn't exist in the mind he concluded that was the BODY. Now the remaining letters, "ia" that were left in the word he then abbreviated them as "Is Accepted ." Being accepted is the one true quest that he always strove for. Being accepted in life and accepting people for their faults. Ultimately Schizophrenia would be accepted by a world and a person with Schizophrenia could ultimately trust, then soon after create meaningful friendships. He noted. "I feel in my SOUL I will someday be accepted." In conclusion studying what he calls the multi dimensional word Schizofriendia. It simply says, we all need a friend. It is his creation of MIND, BODY and SOUL. Though the word itself is three parts. Schizo (mind) friend (body) ia (is accepted). " Someday when all the pieces can be placed together, I will then be complete."
Posted by: James at November 8, 2007 11:22 PM
In my writing that, I tend to think more than I type.I meant to say the hopes and dreams will come true for all that Suffer with Schizophrenia. Though alot of joyous times was what I wanted you to have also.:)I wasn't sure if I should list the sites so I didn't. Anyone at this page who is interested just email me at jambardo8@aol.com. Please always remember I don't want a penny. I know this probably isn't a big deal to many people. I just really think it can help. The kids really like the word friend. They all want bracelets:) Bye 4 now :)James
Posted by: James at November 9, 2007 12:25 AM
SchizoFRIENDia
Schizofriendia is a word that I made up today.
Covered in tears as they took me away.
I never quite new when I could go home.
They checked for sharp objects.
Into a dark room I was thrown.
I screamed through the night.
While I covered my scars.
I Cried out your name.
Watched by security guards.
They filled me with drugs.
And I was so scared.
I started shaking so bad.
But not one of them cared.
I asked for a pencil.
And some paper to write.
I drew a friend just to talk to.
But then the paper went white.
Where did you go to my friend on the pad.
The friend I created was all that I had.
Schizofriendia is a word that I made up today.
I added the friend while alone I must stay.
James A. Lombardo
Copyright ©2007 James A. Lombardo
Posted by: James Lombardo at November 9, 2007 10:34 PM
Hey everyone it is really happening ! I have the name Schizofriendia legally documented along with it's sole meaning ! That way for all time no bottom feeders will ever be able to self profit from this name! With the meaning of true friends and the FRIEND Bracelets are on their way ! Stigma will come to a hault ! All money is going to the hungry and other great causes. I am only the sole designer and creator. I will NOT be selling these myself. I am working it out now that the Mental Health Association is getting involved.I will never see a dime. That is the way it always will be. Peace and keep the faith. Always A FRIEND. James Anthony Lombardo
SchizoFRIENDia Creator and Proud of it:).
Posted by: James A. Lombardo at November 12, 2007 09:03 PM
Attachment-The Mental Health Association I talk about is Greater Danbury Mental Health. I am a patient and long time friend. Also Torrington Intervention Center has helped me ao much just by listening to my invention of this creation for so very long. I am finally smiling. Thank you for your time who read this. God bless you all.
Hey everyone it is really happening ! I have the name Schizofriendia legally documented along with it's sole meaning ! That way for all time no bottom feeders will ever be able to self profit from this name! With the meaning of true friends and the FRIEND Bracelets are on their way ! I have a fantastic company making the first batch ! Stigma will come to a hault ! All money is going to the hungry and other great causes. I am only the sole designer and creator. I am NOT selling these personally. I will NOT be selling these myself. I am giving away all of the first Batch and keeping four for myself. I am working on trying to get the Mental Health G.D.M.H.A. I go to involved as well as the Intervention Center and other great places! Hopefully they will take charge. I will never see a dime. That is the way it always will be. Note: I am not selling these. I am just the creator.I will keep you posted in 2008 when they should be circulating pretty well. Keep your eyes open for these. The will be three diferent designs,Red,Red and Black,Black and Purple.Peace and keep the faith. Always A FRIEND. James Anthony Lombardo
SchizoFRIENDia Creator and very Proud of it:).
I have had Schizophrenia since 1991. I think this word is very helpful in describing the way that friendship and the support of a loving family can help us in climbing over some pretty tough obstacles. Schizofriendia simply means you always have a friend out there. God bless you all. Sincerely James
Schizofriendia : Schizo (mind) friend (body) ia (is accepted). An individual who has been diagnosed with the brain disease Schizophrenia. One who has found or is searching for a friend in a world that accepts them for who they are and not because they have Schizophrenia.
Posted by: James A. Lombardo at November 12, 2007 09:34 PM
my son was recently diagnosed.
you have given me more amunition to fight, to help him cope
THANKS ! !
Smiling Now
Posted by: sharon lewis at March 18, 2008 01:11 PM
Thanks for a beautiful site! I have added you in elected!
Necessarily I shall advise your site to the friends!
Best wishes for you!http://xgyjj.hostlibre.com
Posted by: Roosevelt at June 19, 2008 04:13 AM
How have I been stopping the stigma in a small way. I have been suffering from Schizophrenia since 1991.I am 38 years old now and still fighting it everyday. I started using the word SchizoFRIENDia in every converstaion that Schizophrenia was mentioned. You will not believe how many people are shocked ! saying. " I never knew the word friend was there." I guarentee in years the word Schizophrenia can be thought of diferently,if it is always emphasized with FRIEND. I created three .com websites with the word schizofriendia in all. I am willing to donate them to any organization that can use them to make hats, self help bracelets, shirts and always utilize the word FRIEND. I don't want a penny. I would just love to know that the joys of all suffering from Schizophrenia can becaome a reality.
(Meaning)
Schizofriendia : Schizo (mind) friend (body) ia (is accepted). An individual who has been diagnosed with the brain disease Schizophrenia. One who has found or is searching for a friend in a world that accepts them for who they are and not because they have Schizophrenia.
(History)
Schizofriendia : The word Schizofriendia was created as a multi dimensional word by James Anthony Lombardo who is a life time Psychology student, Teacher, Inventor and also suffers from the Brain Disease Schizophrenia. The word Schizofriendia would be very easy to derive by taking the word Phren in Schizophrenia and replacing it with the similar sounding friend. Though it wasn't so simple making the word Schizofriendia in his words. Never understanding what was truly wrong in my mind. The constant paranoia, delusions, hallucinations and the separation from the world and reality caused the total feeling of non acceptance. The word Schizofriendia is actually three separated parts.Shizo - FRIEND - ia. The word Schizo is a partial word involved in a mental separation. Which he attributed "Schizo" to the MIND. Then the word "Friend" meaning a person which one knows and who is very fond of. That of a "true" friend exists outside the mind. Although through other illnesses and treumatic hapenings, created friends can get you through some very hard times, Especially the times when isolated or alone. Having Schizophrenia keeps you inside your mind to often though. The most important key to having hope and finding happiness is supportive friends and family. One who didn't exist in the mind he concluded that was the BODY. Now the remaining letters, "ia" that were left in the word he then abbreviated them as "Is Accepted ." Being accepted is the one true quest that he always strove for. Being accepted in life and accepting people for their faults. Ultimately Schizophrenia would be accepted by a world and a person with Schizophrenia could ultimately trust, then soon after create meaningful friendships. He noted. "I feel in my SOUL I will someday be accepted." In conclusion studying what he calls the multi dimensional word Schizofriendia. It simply says, we all need a friend. It is his creation of MIND, BODY and SOUL. Though the word itself is three parts. Schizo (mind) friend (body) ia (is accepted). " Someday when all the pieces can be placed together, I will then be complete."
Posted by: James at November 8, 2007 11:22 PM
In my writing that, I tend to think more than I type.I meant to say the hopes and dreams will come true for all that Suffer with Schizophrenia. Though alot of joyous times was what I wanted you to have also.:)I wasn't sure if I should list the sites so I didn't. Anyone at this page who is interested just email me at jambardo8@aol.com. Please always remember I don't want a penny. I know this probably isn't a big deal to many people. I just really think it can help. The kids really like the word friend. They all want bracelets:) Bye 4 now :)James
Posted by: James at November 9, 2007 12:25 AM
SchizoFRIENDia
Schizofriendia is a word that I made up today.
Covered in tears as they took me away.
I never quite new when I could go home.
They checked for sharp objects.
Into a dark room I was thrown.
I screamed through the night.
While I covered my scars.
I Cried out your name.
Watched by security guards.
They filled me with drugs.
And I was so scared.
I started shaking so bad.
But not one of them cared.
I asked for a pencil.
And some paper to write.
I drew a friend just to talk to.
But then the paper went white.
Where did you go to my friend on the pad.
The friend I created was all that I had.
Schizofriendia is a word that I made up today.
I added the friend while alone I must stay.
James A. Lombardo
Copyright ©2007 James A. Lombardo
Posted by: James Lombardo at November 9, 2007 10:34 PM
Hey everyone it is really happening ! I have the name Schizofriendia legally documented along with it's sole meaning ! That way for all time no bottom feeders will ever be able to self profit from this name! With the meaning of true friends and the FRIEND Bracelets are on their way ! Stigma will come to a hault ! All money is going to the hungry and other great causes. I am only the sole designer and creator. I will NOT be selling these myself. I am working it out now that the Mental Health Association is getting involved.I will never see a dime. That is the way it always will be. Peace and keep the faith. Always A FRIEND. James Anthony Lombardo
SchizoFRIENDia Creator and Proud of it:).
Posted by: James A. Lombardo at November 12, 2007 09:03 PM
Attachment-The Mental Health Association I talk about is Greater Danbury Mental Health. I am a patient and long time friend. Also Torrington Intervention Center has helped me ao much just by listening to my invention of this creation for so very long. I am finally smiling. Thank you for your time who read this. God bless you all.
Hey everyone it is really happening ! I have the name Schizofriendia legally documented along with it's sole meaning ! That way for all time no bottom feeders will ever be able to self profit from this name! With the meaning of true friends and the FRIEND Bracelets are on their way ! I have a fantastic company making the first batch ! Stigma will come to a hault ! All money is going to the hungry and other great causes. I am only the sole designer and creator. I am NOT selling these personally. I will NOT be selling these myself. I am giving away all of the first Batch and keeping four for myself. I am working on trying to get the Mental Health G.D.M.H.A. I go to involved as well as the Intervention Center and other great places! Hopefully they will take charge. I will never see a dime. That is the way it always will be. Note: I am not selling these. I am just the creator.I will keep you posted in 2008 when they should be circulating pretty well. Keep your eyes open for these. The will be three diferent designs,Red,Red and Black,Black and Purple.Peace and keep the faith. Always A FRIEND. James Anthony Lombardo
SchizoFRIENDia Creator and very Proud of it:).
I have had Schizophrenia since 1991. I think this word is very helpful in describing the way that friendship and the support of a loving family can help us in climbing over some pretty tough obstacles. Schizofriendia simply means you always have a friend out there. God bless you all. Sincerely James
Schizofriendia : Schizo (mind) friend (body) ia (is accepted). An individual who has been diagnosed with the brain disease Schizophrenia. One who has found or is searching for a friend in a world that accepts them for who they are and not because they have Schizophrenia.
Posted by: James A. Lombardo at November 12, 2007 09:34 PM
my son was recently diagnosed.
you have given me more amunition to fight, to help him cope
THANKS ! !
Smiling Now
Posted by: sharon lewis at March 18, 2008 01:11 PM
Thanks for a beautiful site! I have added you in elected!
Necessarily I shall advise your site to the friends!
Best wishes for you!http://xgyjj.hostlibre.com
Posted by: Roosevelt at June 19, 2008 04:13 AM