Schizophrenia a misunderstood illness, an Alberta expert says
Red Deer AdvocateOct 15, 2018
"See me, not my illness."
That's the theme for the seventh annual campaign kickoff for
TSN host
Bonertz said Landsberg is a one of
"He lives with depression and anxiety disorder himself and when he started speaking about his own experiences with mental illness it helped others to break their silence, and even seek help, and be more comfortable in talking about their illnesses," she said.
This year, Bonertz is hoping the campaign raises
Funding has been difficult with the downturn in the economy, so the organization is looking to raise "a little bit more this year," Bonertz said.
But the event is not just to raise money, but also awareness.
"Schizophrenia is a very misunderstood illness."
The money goes towards reducing the stigma and discrimination around the illness.
"The portrayal of people with the illness in the movies is seen as violent and it's not realistic and people are much more likely to be victims of violence," Bonertz said.
That false portrayal leads to people with the illness feeling isolated.
Ninety six per cent of the people living with schizophrenia report experiencing discrimination in their communities – in finding employment, housing, and occasionally from their friends and family, said the provincial program director.
One in 100 people worldwide live with the illness.
"So in
The illness does not discriminate, said Bonertz. "It affects men and women equally, economic, educational backgrounds – none of that comes into play."
The money raised as part of the campaign goes towards education and support programs for those living with the illness as well as their family members across the six branches in the province including the