Richard Carlson Jr. was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia when he was twenty-one years of age. His illness first manifested when he was an early adolescent. Modern psychiatry greatly failed Richard for over a decade. Then, after an incident involving the police, he truly understood that his diagnosis was real, and finally began the long process of recovery. Over ten years later, his life is greatly improved. In the course of his treatment, Richard also recovered from depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and lethargy.
Do not let what happened to Richard happen to you, a loved one, or a patient dealing with severe mental illness. Always be honest with each other, and with your psychiatrist. For patients, family members, caregivers, students, and medical professionals who would like to learn more, visit www.survivingschizophrenia.com.