talking about it Schizophrenia

What is Schizophrenia Who is affected Risk factors for Schizophrenia Signs and Symptoms Treatments The lived experience of Schizophrenia How to help someone experiencing Schizophrenia Overview

talking about it “Schizophrenia is characterised by a breakdown of thinking and emotions, and a loss of contact with reality ” What is Schizophrenia?

talking about it Who is affected by Schizophrenia? 1% of the Australian population will develop Schizophrenia at some stage in their life

talking about it Family history/Genetic factors Biochemical factors Structural changes in the brain Environmental stressors Risk factors for Schizophrenia

talking about it Delusions Hallucinations Difficulty with thinking Disorganised or inappropriate behaviour Lack of expression Loss of feeling Loss of motivation Signs and Symptoms of Schizophrenia

talking about it Medication Psycho/social support: eg. counsellors, case managers, support groups Community Support: eg. accommodation support, training and return to work programs Treatments for Schizophrenia

talking about it “Schizophrenia is not exclusive to the white English speaking population. It affects people from all cultures” Cultural Perceptions

talking about it G Gather: information eg. observations, asking others. Look for signs and symptoms R Respond: talk and listen non judgmentally to the person and give reassurance I Involve others: encourage the person to seek professional help either from a GP, Psychiatrist or Mental Health Services P Plan: to encourage the use of self help techniques such as support groups, medication compliance and stress management How to help someone who may be experiencing Schizophrenia

talking about it Spot the signs and symptoms Seek professional help eg. see your GP Make changes in your life eg. reduce stress, learn some relaxation techniques, get the support of friends and family, reduce alcohol and other drug use Helping yourself

talking about it Myth or Fact? Mental illness only affects a few people Mentally ill people are violent People with a mental illness should be kept in hospital People with a mental illness never get better Questions for discussion

Living with Schizophrenia

Questions?

talking about it Schizophrenia is characterised by a breakdown of thinking and emotions, and a loss of contact with reality Most people develop Schizophrenia between the ages of 15 and 25 The causes of Schizophrenia are not yet clearly understood Summary

talking about it Symptoms can vary widely between people who have Schizophrenia Schizophrenia is an illness that requires careful management GRIP Summary

talking about it Where to seek help and information Websites Schizophrenia Fellowship of NSW Australian Schizophrenia Research Institute SANE Australia Headspace National Youth MH Foundation Mental Health Association of NSW Services See your local GP Mental Health Services Psychologist Psychiatrist Community Health Centre Local Support Groups Counselling Services Local Hospital

talking about it Where to seek help and information Helplines & Information Services NSW Mental Health Line Lifeline: SANE Australia Helpline: Kids Helpline: Mensline Australia: Beyondblue Information Line: Mental Health Information Service: