Schizophrenia: A Real Disease

Discusses the nature of schizophrenia. Suggests it may be a heterogeneous condition and that many different bodily diseases may share common psychiatric symptoms such as thought disorder,hallucinations, paranoid delusions and irrational anger. Further suggests that, in every case, bodily causes for psychiatric symptoms should be sought. Presently, neuroleptic drugs are the only treatment for schizophrenia. These have many adverse effects, making patients feel like zombies, because of their anaesthetizing property. Were causes to be found, rational treatment could be given and, for some patients, their schizophrenia would be cured enabling them to live normal lives with no particular employment problems. Schizophrenics are the pariahs of society. They are often imprisoned for criminal acts committed solely because of their disturbed brain chemistry. Of the 953 patient members of the Schizophrenia Association of Great Britain, 46 per cent were quite unable to work. Their prospects are bleak. No effort should be spared in trying to get patients well. In the meantime,suitable enjoyable outdoor work should be provided part time or full time. This would be therapeutic as well as a productive occupation.