Reinforcing stigma

I refer to the feature A Schizophrenic Whirlwind by David Pisani (April 2).

The way the term schizophrenic is used in the title together with other derogatory terms such as "psychopathic" later on in the article, feed into the prejudice and stigma that is so rampant with regard to mental illness. Since the term psychopathic is also associated with a person "who just happens to be a serial killer", it also reinforces the misconception that people with mental health problems are aggressive and dangerous. Such ill-conceived images used by the media add greatly to the distress experienced by people with mental health problems and reinforce prejudice among the public.

Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness and persons experiencing such an illness deserve dignity and respect.

From our experience, we can also state that, with the necessary support, these persons are able to find employment and develop satisfying social relationships and can, therefore, contribute to our society.

On behalf of people experiencing mental health problems and their families, I would also like to appeal to the editor and ask that when such terms are ill-used, he refrains from printing them.