World Schizophrenia Awareness Day is annually observed across the globe on 24 May to raise awareness about Schizophrenia, a serious mental illness affecting 24 million people worldwide.
- This Day aims to combat myths, stigma, and discrimination associated with the condition, promote mental health care, and foster understanding and support for those affected by Schizophrenia.
Background:
i.World Schizophrenia Awareness Day also known as Pinel Day, was established by the National Schizophrenia Foundation (NSF), a not-for-profit agency, in honour of French physician Dr. Philippe Pinel.
- Dr. Philippe Pinel is considered a pioneer in the treatment and healthcare for the mentally ill.
ii.The term Schizophrenia was coined on 24 April 1908 by Swiss Psychiatrist Professor Paul Eugen Bleuler.
Schizophrenia:
i.Schizophrenia is a biologically based brain disease that seriously impairs a person’s ability to think clearly and relate to others.
ii.It is a complex mental disorder, that manifests through various symptoms and challenges that significantly impact an individual’s perception of reality and behaviour.
Symptoms:
- Persistent delusions;
- Persistent hallucinations;
- Experiences of influence, control, or passivity;
- Disorganised thinking;
- Highly disorganised behaviour;
- Negative symptoms;
- Extreme agitation or slowing of movements.
Magnitude and Prevalence:
i.Schizophrenia affects approximately 24 million people worldwide, or 1 in 300 individuals (0.32%).
- Among adults, the prevalence is higher at 1 in 222 (0.45%).
ii.It often begins in late adolescence or the twenties, with earlier onset in men than in women.
Impact on Life:
i.Schizophrenia causes psychosis, significant disability and distress, and impairment in personal, social, educational, and occupational areas.
ii.Those affected are 2 to 3 times more likely to die early due to physical illnesses like cardiovascular and infectious diseases.
iii.People with schizophrenia often face stigma, discrimination, and human rights violations.
Note:
i.Over two-thirds of people with psychosis globally do not receive specialist mental health care.
ii.A range of effective care options for people with schizophrenia exist and at least 1 in 3 people with schizophrenia can fully recover.
Some Efforts of WHO:
i.The World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2030 outlines steps to provide proper services for people with mental disorders, including schizophrenia.
ii.The WHO Special Initiative for Mental Health aims to advance the Action Plan’s goals by ensuring 100 million more people access quality, affordable mental health care.
iii.WHO’s Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP) uses evidence-based tools and training to expand mental health services, especially in resource-poor settings.
