The campaign title – ‘1 in 100’ – reflects the fact that around one per cent of the population suffer from the condition.
It is still plagued by misconceptions and myths, making it difficult for some sufferers to talk about it.
A multi-agency approach has been adopted in a bid to disprove those myths and provide the best possible support for schizophrenics and their carers.The ‘1 in 100’ campaign was first launched in London in 2001 and was brought to the Island with the co-operation of Adult Mental Health Services, the charity Jersey Focus on Mental Health, the Health Promotion Unit and the Jersey Employers Network on Disability.Also taking part has been the director of the National Institute for Mental Health in England, Paddy Cooney, and drugs companies Jannsen-Cilag and Organon.A presentation held on Friday was aimed at involving potential employers in the campaign by providing them with increased understanding of those with schizophrenia and the contribution they can make in the workplace.Adult Mental Health Services manager Ian Dyer said that, sadly the campaign was about dispelling misconceptions and bringing news of all available treatments to patients.
