To help Change Schizophrenia Expectations, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., partnered with The Mighty to share stories of what it really looks like to live with schizophrenia and what has helped these individuals stay on track.
Transcription:
For adults living with schizophrenia, finding the right treatment plan for you can make a positive difference.
But it’s important to recognize that finding this might take time and include multiple pieces.
To help Change Schizophrenia Expectations, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., partnered with The Mighty to share stories of what it really looks like to live with schizophrenia and what has helped these individuals stay on track.
“I went so long without medication or help because I thought if I told people about my hallucinations, I would be instantly hospitalized for being ‘crazy.’ Now I know so much more and am getting help and treatment.”
“I found it difficult to listen to most people, especially if they weren’t living with the disorder. I managed to find others with mental illness to build a type of support system that actually understands.”
“I would tell people to remember to trust their doctors and take their medication, because I feel so much better when I do these things.”
“I wish I had known that resources were available, and I wasn’t alone.”
“I wish I had known that my delusions were not entirely unique and others had passed through the same fiery tribulation.”
“There is no shame in taking medication, participating in therapy, and taking care of yourself. It doesn’t matter if you’ve fallen off the path—get back on, no matter how many tries it takes!”
“This is a battle, a battle that you want to win. To win, you have to stick to your plan. Your battle plan is taking your medications and going to all of your appointments, including counseling. Your doctor and counselor are your allies; they’re there to guide you to victory.”
“The doctor mentioned my son might benefit from being on a long-acting injectable…which meant he only had to take it once a month. It has helped control his symptoms.”
-Maye, a volunteer with the SHARE Network, a Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., program.
Finding the right treatment plan for you includes finding supportive therapies and medication that helps keep schizophrenia symptoms under control.
Every story is unique. If you are an adult living with schizophrenia, talk to your doctor and figure out a treatment plan that’s right for you.
See other #ChangeSchizophreniaExpectations stories about advocating for better understanding and outcomes in schizophrenia care on TheMighty.com.
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