Schizophrenia disorder is a serious mental health diagnosis affecting more than 21 million people worldwide according to the World Health Organization. The purpose of this day is to spread awareness about what the diagnosis of schizophrenia is, eradicate the myths, dispel superstitions, and reduce stigmas regarding mental health. It is possible to live well with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. The exact prevalence of people living with a diagnosis of schizophrenia is difficult to measure, but estimates range from 0.25% to 0.64% of U.S. adults. A person can be diagnosed with schizophrenia at any age. However, the usual age of onset tends to be in the late teens to the early 20s for men, and the late 20s to early 30s for women. It is uncommon for schizophrenia to be diagnosed in a person younger than 12 or older than 40. Schizophrenia is a complex, long-term medical diagnosis where a person experiences confused thinking, delusions and/or hallucinations as a result of certain chemicals, in certain areas of the brain, being out of balance. When this chemical imbalance occurs, there can be a lack of co-ordination between thoughts, actions, and emotions. This means that the effects of the disorder interfere with a person’s ability to think clearly, manage emotions, make decisions, and relate to others. Take steps to find ways that will reduce the stigma and discrimination surrounding schizophrenia. Learn more about the diagnosis of schizophrenia through the National Institute of Mental Health. Take the time to listen to people. People with a diagnosis of schizophrenia have described their symptoms in a variety of ways. How a person describes symptoms often depends on the cultural lens they are looking through. Click here for tips on helping someone experiencing symptoms of schizophrenia. There is no health without mental health, and there is a path to wellness. You are not alone. If you are a person who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia, try to work with a healthcare professional that understands your cultural background, and shares the same expectations for treatment. When you are experiencing symptoms associated with schizophrenia, or any other mental health concern, know that there professional counselors available to talk to on the New Mexico Crisis and Access Line. Call us at 1-855-662-7474
Habit Stacking
As we proceed into the new year are you finding it difficult to change existing habits or introduce new ones? Finding an effective technique for
