Schizophrenics and their families suffer unduly because of delays in diagnosing and treating their condition, according to research by Schizophrenia Ireland.
Professionals and sufferers from schizophrenia agree that detection takes too long and treatment starts too late. The research was conducted through "focus groups" in which people using Schizophrenia Ireland's services and professionals, including psychiatrists, nurses and paramedics, discussed the illness. The study was issued yesterday to coincide with Lucia Day - named after James Joyce's daughter who had schizophrenia - an annual event aimed at raising awareness.
Schizophrenia sufferers told the focus group that detection and treatment were delayed by professionals and officials who "beat around the bush", with the result it can take up to two years to confirm a diagnosis. "This is often too late and causes unnecessary pain and suffering, and reduces the prospects of a speedy recovery," the report says. Over 35,000 people are estimated to suffer from schizophrenia, about one per cent of the population.
"People with the illness directly impinge on the lives of another 2.5 people - hereby suggesting that up to 120,000 are directly affected by the illness and its consequences over a protracted period of time."
Other findings include:
Schizophrenics are relatively insecure, unassertive and lacking in confidence and are often lonely and isolated.
Hospitalisation and medication cause schizophrenics to put on weight and change appearance. "This can be very demoralising and socially crippling."
Advice from dieticians and physiotherapists, which could help schizophrenics cope with these problems, is rarely available in the mental health service.
If schizophrenics give honest answers when applying for car insurance they are likely to be refused.
Weblinks: www.iol.ie/lucia (Schizophrenia Ireland) www.mensana.org (Mental Health Association of Ireland)