What's NewOne in One Hundred
Schizophrenia is a devastating mental illness that touches the lives of 1 in 100 people, more than 40,000 British Columbians, and approximately in 290,000 throughout Canada. Schizophrenia afflicts people in all walks of life, including politicians, mathematicians and artists. But there is nothing artistic, creative or enjoyable about the terrifying inner torment caused by this tragic disease. At some point in their life someone you know could suffer from it.
What Are The Answers?
Scientific ResearchMore scientific research into the causes of schizophrenia is essential. It is time to talk about, write about and think about this hidden disease. There are not enough research dollars going into schizophrenia. Unlike heart disease and cancer, this disease of the brain is mostly ignored. For instance, for each victim of cancer we spend about $400 per year for research, while schizophrenia research amounts to only about $11 per year per victim.
Better Care People suffering from schizophrenia often end up either in expensive hospital beds or neglected and barely surviving on the streets. Between these two extremes lies the answer: resources and services especially for people who are chronically ill with schizophrenia.Better Education
Great strides have been made in the last decade in brain research and new medications. Since we now know that importance of early intervention for improving the prognosis for schizophrenia, it is vital that this information reach as many people as possible, as soon as possible. The B.C. Schizophrenia Society’s public awareness campaign, “Together We Can Bring Hope & Light”, plus education programs for family members, doctors, teachers and school counsellors are all helping to bring new hope to people with schizophrenia, their friends and families.
A Better Attitude
Society’s attitude must change towards schizophrenia. It is not contagious. It is not a personality defect. It is not anybody’s fault. Those who suffer from this disease need our compassion and help. The British Columbia Schizophrenia Society needs YOU. If you are a family member with a loved one who has schizophrenia, you need us.