When asking people about schizophrenia, you might get uneducated responses like “crazy person,” “not normal,” or “dangerous person.” Unfortunately, this stigma often reinforces the misconception that individuals with schizophrenia are inherently flawed or unstable. However, I believe it’s essential to challenge these perceptions and promote understanding and acceptance.
Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. Sufferers may experience unusual or illogical thinking, hallucinations like hearing voices a common complaint or delusions, belief that certain people like radio or television announcers have a special message that only they understand. While it can be associated with serious mental and physical illnesses, it’s crucial not to stigmatize or fear those who suffer from it. In fact, documented proof shows that some individuals recover fully without any further issues.
What Is Normal
I believe that what constitutes “normal” is subjective and dependent on individual experiences and traits. As a counselor, I view people with schizophrenia as having a unique set of characteristics, just like a diamond has many facets that sparkle when held up to the light. “Even a flawed diamond has value.”
In addition like a diamond, individuals with schizophrenia have their own strengths and flaws. While some may struggle with symptoms like hearing voices, having unusual beliefs, hallucination or delusions it’s crucial not to stigmatize or fear them. Instead, we should focus on promoting understanding and acceptance. If you are interested the National Health Service (N.H.S) gives a more in-depth look at the subject.
let us start with normal… tell me what is normal?
As a counselor, I view Schizophrenia as a “flawed facet” of the whole person, much like a diamond with imperfections. With proper treatment and care, individuals can be “polished and restored to their whole selves.” In this sense, normalcy is subjective and dependent on individual experiences and traits.
Furthermore our distinct characteristics and experiences shape who we are as individuals. It’s essential to acknowledge that people with Schizophrenia have their place in society as well, just like anyone else. While some may struggle with symptoms like hearing voices or having unusual beliefs, some can make a full recovery. It’s crucial not to stigmatize or fear them.
Instead of worrying about the perceived dangers posed by individuals with Schizophrenia, we should be more concerned about the risks of violence from “normal” people. The likelihood of being victimized by a person with Schizophrenia is far lower than the risk of being attacked by someone without mental health issues. It’s crucial to promote understanding and acceptance rather than fear and stigma.
Flawed Diamond Conclusion
Just as a diamond has many facets, each with its own unique characteristics, individuals with schizophrenia have their own set of traits that make them who they are. While some may be perceived as flawed or abnormal, it’s important to recognize the beauty and worth of these individuals.
Furthermore If you think you may suffer Schizophrenia or know of someone that may and don’t want to take medication, there are alternative treatments to try. A good place to start would be mind.org.uk. With or without medication you may be able to manage your symptoms and make a full recovery.
In conclusion, I believe that people with schizophrenia deserve our understanding, acceptance, and support. By promoting a positive and inclusive environment, we can help these individuals thrive and reach their full potential.
Note:
Although this is an old post it is still relative and was born from the many hours spent with individuals and interaction with social care workers alike (Shahdaroba 2024).