The stigma associated with schizophrenia is a major barrier to the optimal recovery of a patient from the condition and is persistent, both in the community and among healthcare professionals.



Stigma can lead to distress, loneliness and discrimination against people with schizophrenia and their families. Negative consequences of stigma have been identified and consist of discrimination in education, employment and housing and it can increase a person’s feeling of hopelessness. This can result in patients being reluctant to seek help, poor adherence to medication and slower to regain confidence and self-esteem. This can unfortunately also lead to suicidal behaviour.



Therefore, it is a vital responsibility for pharmacists to improve their own attitudes and behaviour towards people with schizophrenia, and so to not contribute to the stigma. It is also important that patients and their families are treated and consulted with kindness and respect.

​

Furthermore, participation in educational campaigns such as Time-to-change which are aimed at people in the community and media personnel can significantly help to end the stigma and discrimination people with schizophrenia face.