Individuals with Schizophrenia Struggle to Access Healthcare Services

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Schizophrenia, a mental illness, impacts thinking, emotions, relationships, and decision-making. Early and appropriate treatment is crucial for managing symptoms, as there is no cure for schizophrenia. Treatment typically includes long-term medication, possibly for life, and psychotherapy to help patients understand and manage their symptoms.

A comprehensive care team, including social workers, community mental health nurses, occupational therapists, counselors, psychiatrists, psychologists, and pharmacists, collaborates to provide well-rounded support. Schizophrenia treatment is costly, with medical bills averaging over $1,800 per month, including medication and outpatient care.

Access to mental health services for individuals with schizophrenia has lacked, especially in low- and middle-income countries. A study assessed mental health service accessibility, treatment gaps, and service utilization for individuals with schizophrenic disorders in 50 low- and middle-income countries. It revealed that the median annual treatment rate is 128 cases per 100,000 population, with a median treatment gap of 69 percent. This gap was notably higher in low-income countries, reaching 89 percent. The availability of psychiatrists and nurses significantly influenced service accessibility and treatment gaps.

The study concluded that the large treatment gap highlights an urgent need for improved mental health services in these countries.

Dr. Robert Kohn, Some Categories of Suicide

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