MEP "Do you discriminate against Schizophrenia?"
May 31, 2006 1:03 PM
Liz Lynne MEP, West Midlands Liberal Democrats Employment and Social Affairs spokesperson, yesterday co-hosted a seminar on "Schizophrenia in Europe" aimed at drawing attention to the problems associated with the disease.
Based upon the recent EU Mental Health Green Paper, the MEP highlighted the potential prejudice faced by sufferers and the difficulties of managing such a complex condition saying "Those suffering from mental health problems can often face discrimination and exclusion from the job market, and stigmatisation from employers with little understanding of illnesses such as schizophrenia."
"Schizophrenia is a particularly challenging condition. Not only because it's so hard to treat successfully but also due to the unique nature and, in some cases, the extremity of behaviour that it can produce."
"I hope that this seminar has gone some way to tackle the myths surrounding this illness and that the Commission will pay particular attention to the issues raised by today's discussion. More political attention and financial resources must be given to mental health issues and, in particular, to the most complex illnesses."
It is estimated that schizophrenia affects one in every hundred people over their life times.
Ends
Notes to Editors
1. The economic and social consequences of schizophrenia place a substantial burden on healthcare and social services across all European countries. Recently, the publication of the Health and Consumer Protection DG Green Paper, "Improving the mental health of the population: towards a strategy on mental health for the European Union", placed mental health as a political priority. This Green Paper states that mental health includes, 'mental health problems and strain, impaired functioning associated with distress, symptoms, and diagnosable mental disorders, such as schizophrenia and depression'.
2. About 30% of patients diagnosed with schizophrenia attempt suicide at least once during their lifetime. Despite recent improvements in treatment, schizophrenia remains a heavy burden on society, and can cause sufferers a high degree of disability.
3. http://www.rethink.org/about_mental_illness/mental_illnesses_and_disorders/schizophrenia/index.html
For further information, comment or to book an interview, please telephone Liz Lynne on 003222845521 (Brussels) or 077644 52725(mobile) or Press Officer Ollie Newham on 01789 266354
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