“Crazy” “loonie” “schizo”…you may have heard these slang words before. But like many other put-downs and prejudicial chat, talk like this is hurtful to a certain group of people, those living with mental illness. Schizophrenia is a brain disorder that will affect 1 in 100 people sometime in their life.
     Why is it important that teenagers know more about schizophrenia? Because the first symptoms most often occur in people your age -- between the ages of 16 to 24.
     What many people do NOT know is that schizophrenia is treatable. Unfortunately, our fears and prejudice often keep people from seeking treatment early.
     We can help alleviate this suffering—but as with any
prejudice, it will take work. YOU can make a difference.
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