WHAT IT IS:
- A biochemical and physical abnormality in the brain
- A mental illness that affects more than 2.5 million Americans, or one percent of all Americans
- Accounts for more hospital beds than any other illness
- Treatment costs $32.5 to $65 billion annually
- Symptoms can include:
Hallucinations, including voices and visions
Paranoid delusions or delusions of grandeur
“Thought broadcasting”
Confusion
WHAT IT IS NOT:
- Multiple or split personalities
- Violent
- Caused by poor parenting
- Contagious
- Reason for discrimination, isolation or banishment