Schizophrenia Awareness Day (observed annually on 25th July) is an opportunity to challenge stigma, raise understanding and highlight the importance of compassionate, ongoing support for people living with schizophrenia and those who care for them.
Around 1 in 100 people will experience schizophrenia in their lifetime, yet the condition is still widely misunderstood and often stigmatised. Raising awareness and offering non-judgemental support can make a real difference.
What Is Schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a long-term mental health condition that affects the way a person thinks, feels, and behaves. Symptoms can include:
- Hallucinations (hearing, seeing, or feeling things that aren’t there)
- Delusions (strong beliefs that may seem unusual to others)
- Disorganised thinking or speech
- Reduced emotional expression
- Social withdrawal or lack of motivation
Not everyone experiences all symptoms, and each person’s journey is unique. With the right understanding and support, many people live well with schizophrenia.
For more detailed information:
• Mind – About Schizophrenia
• Rethink Mental Illness – Schizophrenia
Supporting Someone with Schizophrenia - Without Stigma
If someone you care about is living with schizophrenia, there are simple, respectful ways to offer support:
- Listen without judgement - Accept their experience, even if you don’t fully understand it. Avoid challenging delusions directly - focus on how they feel instead.
- Be patient - Symptoms and recovery can vary day-to-day. Try to remain consistent and calm, especially during times of distress.
- Don’t define them by their diagnosis - Schizophrenia is just one part of a person’s life. Keep seeing the person, not just the condition.
- Learn more - Understanding helps reduce fear and stigma. Educate yourself through reliable sources, and talk openly about mental health when appropriate.
- Encourage support - If the person is ready, you can help them explore support options - but don’t push. Respect their autonomy and timing.
Local Support from Darlington Mind
At Darlington Mind, we offer a range of mental health services for people living with mental health challenges. Our approach is supportive, inclusive and based on individual needs. This includes:
- 1-to-1 emotional and practical support such as counselling
- Therapeutic group activities
- A safe, non-judgemental environment to build confidence and connection
Explore our services page here:
National Support Organisations
In addition to local support, here are national charities offering guidance and resources:
• Rethink Mental Illness – advocacy, information and carers’ support - www.rethink.org
• Mind – information, peer support, and helplines - www.mind.org.uk
• Hearing Voices Network – support for people who hear voices - www.hearing-voices.org
• SANEline – out-of-hours mental health helpline (4.30pm – 10.30pm daily) - 0300 304 7000
