Great progress has been made in understanding and treating this crippling brain disorder. We now know that people with schizophrenia do best when they receive a combination of medication and intensive, ongoing community support. Recovery is, for the first time, a real possibility for many individuals with schizophrenia. But we have a long way yet to go. Science has not yet revealed the cause of schizophrenia.
Treatments remain imperfect.
The treatments and supports that do work are often unavailable. Violence may be the outcome for some people with schizophrenia who are not in treatment, for whom treatment doesn't work, or who also have a drug or alcohol problem. Families and friends, who are usually the strongest advocates for their loved ones, are unfortunately most often the victims of this aggression. We need to ensure that the men and women struggling with schizophrenia are able to get the medications and community supports that can make such a life-saving difference to one's recovery. We need to make sure that when individuals become symptomatic they are provided immediate intervention and a network of care.