Attempts to overcome the stigma of schizophrenia

Abstract

The results of research into attitudes show clearly that the knowledge, the attitudes and views of our society towards psychiatric topics strongly influence practical psychiatric services. Those affected report that they are confronted with a high degree of prejudice and exclusion which considerably inhibits their recovery, their integration and their quality of life even today. Especially people with schizophrenic illnesses are affected by stigmatisation and exclusion. These are not just caused by a lack of information. Prejudices and misconceptions are deeply rooted in our cultural tradition. The negative consequences for the treatment and way of life of those affected are such that Asmus Finzen spoke of a "second illness" which may be caused by stigmatisation.Set against the background of the vulnerability-stress-paradigm, the social consequences can result in stressors. Disadvantages in terms of societal participation, negative assessments and humiliating discrimination can undermine self-esteem, ability to cope and compliance and thereby hinder the recovery process and strengthen remaining marks of the illness. Since there is extensive informed understanding about these problems, the discussion focuses increasinlgy on questions about what psychiatry and those working in psychiatry can contribute to reverse this negative attitude. This is the aim, for example, of the World Psychiatric Association's international awareness campaign, which uses modern communication techniques to try to counter the myths and misunderstandings surrounding the schizophrenic illness and its name. The study being introduced here was carried out in conjunction with the Society for Mental Health Tyrol. It was attempted to discover how information should be conveyed in order to change the attitudes of school pupils. On the basis of these results, we have begun to offer information sessions in schools throughout the Tyrol.