World Mental Health Day

World Mental Health day is an initiative run by the World Federation for Mental Health and was first celebrated in 1992. The aim of the initiative is to raise awareness of various mental health issues, including mental health education and advocacy. Each year a different mental health concern is addressed, and this year the focus is on schizophrenia.

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a condition that affects the way a person thinks, feels and acts. The symptoms vary, however a common denominator is that those with the condition find it difficult to judge reality. Symptoms include:

• difficulty sleeping
• changes in appetite
• inconsistent feelings/emotions
• skewed perception of reality
• hearing voices and/or hallucinations.

How can it be treated?

Treatments will differ according to the individual; however talking therapies combined with medication is usually advised. When it comes to talking therapies there are a lot of different types available, with cognitive behavioural therapy and art therapies often suggested.

How can I help raise awareness?

Use today as an opportunity to learn more about schizophrenia, it is often misrepresented (you may find our fact-sheet useful). You can also look to raise awareness by sharing information about schizophrenia or participating in fundraising activities like the Mental Health Foundation’s ‘Tea & Talk’ events.