Lived Experience Forum

[Stroods]

I've had a diagnosis of schizophrenia for 10 years, but generally hide it pretty well. I've never super identified with it, and most people assume I'm just a bit weird sometimes.

I suppose I'm the opposite of you - I've not really acknowledged my diagnosis with most people in my life, but have had to recently because of a med change that messed me around a little. While the people who know are lovely and understanding, I do feel like putting it out into the world has made it more 'real' and so probably made me feel worse. 

Just my thoughts - I definitely see benefits of not acknowledging it for myself internally, but I don't usually have people asking questions!

[Tranquillity]

When I first received a schizophrenia diagnosis (due the onset of a nightmare of hearing frightening voices 24/7 and ending up in mental hospital) about 5 years ago, it was a shock to me. I told quite a few people around me; family, friends, my employer.

• But these days, I'm not so sure about identifying with this label, given the stigma and level of community misunderstanding that goes with it. I prefer to try to forget that I ever had such a diagnosis. Unfortunately, I'm still hearing pretty horrible voices and I don't like taking antipsychotics. But given a lot of support I've received, I'm much happier and coping pretty well. I'm almost the same old me before this ever happened in spite of symptoms persisting.

[tyme]

Hey @Tranquillity ,

I'm hearing you.

There can be so much stigma attached to a diagnosis.

I guess whether you 'ditch' the diagnosis or not is completely up to you.

For me, there are situations where I ditch my diagnosis e.g. work; while there are other times I share my diagnosis e.g. in advocacy work and when I'm seeking particular treatments.

If you 'ditch' it, it doesn't mean the symptoms are wiped away. So I guess it sounds like it's more 'WHEN' you share and when. you ditch - to your benefit.

I'm not sure if what I'm saying is making sense.

Whatever you decide, know that you are not alone 🙂

[Tranquillity]

Hi @tyme, thank you for your response. What you have said is very reasonable. Know who your audience is and use discretion.

[tyme]

Yes! I like the way you framed it.. know your audience and use discretion... that's what I've learnt anyway. @Tranquillity 

I hope it makes it easier for you this way. 

But I totally here and agree there is so much stigma attached to labels.