People treated for schizophrenia 'no more likely to be violent' than anyone else, BC non-profit says

A BC non-profit is hoping to clear away some of the “misconceptions and stigma” that surround schizophrenia.

Today is National Schizophrenia and Psychosis Awareness Day.

The occasion will be marked across the province with many buildings, including the BC Legislature, BC Place, Kelowna General Hospital and White Rock Pier, illuminated purple.

The British Columbia Schizophrenia Society (BCSS) said it hopes its "#StandAgainstStigma" campaign will help “build a more compassionate and inclusive society.”

"For far too long, schizophrenia has been shrouded with misconceptions and stigma, leading to profound misunderstandings about the illness and those living with it," said Faydra Aldridge, CEO of the BCSS.

"With the launch of our campaign, we’re determined to challenge stereotypes that have unfairly burdened individuals, families and caregivers to foster a society where schizophrenia is met with hope instead of shame and discrimination.”

Aldridge added that “we still have a long way to go” when it comes to “how we talk about brain illnesses.”

The BCSS said only 15 per cent of schizophrenics in Canada are employed. It blamed “stigma and lack of support or access to appropriate treatment.”

According to the non-profit, about 97,000 people in BC have a schizophrenia-related disorder.

It said it was important to tell the "truth" about schizophrenia, including that people treated for the disorder "are no more likely to be violent than the general population."

Schizophrenics can also "live healthy, fulfilling lives," the organization said, and can "maintain employment" if they receive "timely and appropriate" care.