World Schizophrenia Awareness Day is observed annually on May 24th. The purpose of this day is to increase public understanding of schizophrenia and reduce the stigma surrounding the condition. It also serves as an opportunity to support those living with schizophrenia and promote early detection and intervention, which are associated with better long-term outcomes. It is estimated that 1 in 500 Ghanaians suffer from schizophrenia. Unfortunately, many individuals with the condition in Ghana do not receive adequate mental health care, with some living as vagrants. Awareness, funding, and human resources are limited, while stigma, discrimination, and human rights violations against these individuals remain prevalent. To mark World Schizophrenia Awareness Day, the Psychiatric Association of Ghana seeks to educate the public about schizophrenia, focusing on the following key points: Schizophrenia: It is one of the brain disorders that affects a person’s experiences, thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Symptoms: These include abnormal experiences and behavior, seeing or hearing things that are not there, abnormal beliefs, thinking and speech that others cannot follow, difficulty engaging with others in social situations, agitation or slowing of movements, and maintenance of unusual postures. Causes: Schizophrenia results from an interaction between genes and a range of environmental factors. Psychosocial factors may also affect the onset and course of schizophrenia. It is known that heavy use of cannabis is associated with an elevated risk of the disorder. Treatment: Schizophrenia is primarily treated with medication. Other supportive therapies include family interventions, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and psychosocial rehabilitation (e.g., life skills training). Facilitated assisted living, supported housing, and supported employment are essential care options that should be available for people with schizophrenia. Early intervention and ongoing management significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.

Addressing Common Myths: Schizophrenia is a medical condition, not caused by bad parenting, personal weakness, or a character flaw. Individuals with schizophrenia can lead fulfilling lives with support and treatment, including employment, education, and meaningful relationships. Support and Advocacy: Referring to persons living with schizophrenia as 'mad' can be very negative and stigmatizing. They suffer from mental illness and need empathy and support. Individuals with schizophrenia and their families should be accepted and well-integrated into the community. Finally, on this World Schizophrenia Awareness Day, the Psychiatric Association of Ghana (PAG) calls on everyone to challenge the stigma and discrimination associated with schizophrenia and other psychosocial disabilities. We urge all to promote understanding and emphasize the importance of early intervention and support.

Signed:

Dr. Delali Fiagbe 

(President, PAG)