Note from the Editor

CrossCurrents

 

Schizophrenia affects only a small percentage of the population – about one per cent worldwide – but it can be devastating. Schizophrenia often interferes with the ability to think clearly, distinguish reality from fantasy, manage emotions, make decisions and relate to others, with obvious implications for daily living. However, although the World Health Organization has identified schizophrenia as one of the 10 most debilitating diseases, it is treatable, and the growing recovery movement attests to the fact that people with schizophrenia can lead full, meaningful lives.

The stories in this issue examine advances in psychosocial approaches to schizophrenia treatment, with a strong focus on recovery. As psychiatrists Dr. Julian Leff and Dr. Richard Warner write in their book Social Inclusion of People with Mental Illness, “Recovery from mental illness is about more than just getting rid of the symptoms and staying out of hospital. It is about regaining a sense of identity, belonging and meaning in life.” Chris Summerville, CEO of the Schizophrenia Society of Canada, paints a picture of hope in recovery. This is followed by an inspiring personal story of recovery from early psychosis, which illustrates that a diagnosis of schizophrenia is not a “kiss of death,” as Summerville calls it. We also present feedback from people with schizophrenia and their families who responded to an informal CrossCurrents survey about what they want from treatment– and from life.

Patricia Nicholson examines two promising but little-used approaches to treatment that target cognitive issues affecting daily functioning. The goal of cognitive-behavioural therapy and cognitive remediation is to help people with schizophrenia develop the necessary skills to lead satisfying lives. Other stories examine unique issues involved in treating co-occurring schizophrenia and substance use and the valuable contribution that peers can make to recovery as formal members of treatment teams. Finally, in the Last Word column, Dr. Richard Warner challenges us to consider how our disability benefits system may discourage people with schizophrenia and other mental illness from working.

With this issue, I welcome the new CrossCurrents executive editor, Dr. Kwame McKenzie, whose impressive credentials are too long to list here. Suffice it to say that his clinical expertise in schizophrenia and research focus on social equity and health will move CrossCurrents in exciting new directions.

Enjoy this issue. Please send us your feedback and story ideas so we can continue to provide you with stories that challenge, educate and inspire you.

Hema Zbogar
tel 416 595-6714
hema_zbogar@camh.net

 

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