Overcoming Mental Illness: Schizophrenia

NEARLY 3-MILLION ADULTS IN THIS COUNTRY HAVE SCHIZOPHRENIA, AND IF THEY’RE AFRICAN-AMERICAN, IT CAN BE A MAJOR HURDLE TO FIND CARE. 

African Americans living with Schizophrenia face an uphill battle when it comes to getting diagnosed and treated.

Their providers not being sensitive to the needs of their particular people, meaning, if I have a provider, it’s better that they’re culturally competent, they understand the needs of their population, and the habits of that population and the social mores. 

Many patients have a hard time finding a competent provider who specializes in mental health. Finances and social stigmas are another barrier, especially in the African American community.

And I’ve been partnering here with Janssen to really bring awareness to the fact that in diverse communities, we need more information and more education. So, education, about schizophrenia, the fact that it’s a brain disease, not a character flaw. Education also fights stigma, psychiatrist Dr.Maxie L. Gordon said.

Patients may not always be consistent in taking their medications, new, longer-lasting drugs can help them stay on treatment, which can help improve their quality of life.

If you or someone you care about suffers from a mental illness, the first step is to get educated so you can get the help you need. To start go to psychiatry.org

Make sure the watch the newest episode on californialifehd.com for the segment!