Bristol Myers Squibb, Taye Diggs and Schizophrenia Community Partner to Empower People with Schizophrenia Through Live Your PosSCZible Campaign
The national initiative, Live Your PosSCZible, is focused on elevating the voices of those with schizophrenia and their care partners to drive impactful conversations about the aspirations of the community
Actor and author
Initiative provides resources and tools to increase the understanding of schizophrenia, reduce stigma, and promote empathy and support
Schizophrenia is a persistent and often disabling mental illness impacting how a person thinks, feels and behaves, with onset typically occurring in late teens and early adulthood. When not properly managed, these symptoms can have a significant impact on daily functioning, overall quality of life, and can contribute to feelings of hopelessness. However, with appropriately managed symptoms and the right support, people with schizophrenia can achieve their ambitions.
“There is a persistent stereotype that people who live with schizophrenia are not able to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives, and that they have to put their professional and personal goals aside,” said
The campaign elevates stories of the schizophrenia community, including the experiences of
“When my sister was diagnosed with schizophrenia, my family was incredibly worried. At first, I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. So much of the information out there doesn’t accurately show what life with schizophrenia can be,” said Taye, known for his roles in Rent, Private Practice and All American. “But today, with support from medical professionals, my sister is managing her mental illness and is working and living independently, enjoys yoga and dance, and is doing really well. We want to get rid of the negative images many of us have of schizophrenia and raise awareness that people with schizophrenia can live full, happy lives.”
Stories from people living with schizophrenia and their care partners – as well as educational, community and peer resources to help navigate care – are available on the campaign website at LiveYourPosSCZible.com. The campaign also includes "Get Ready with Me” videos to showcase how different people with lived experience get ready for their planned activities and daily routines, taking inspiration from the #GRWM social media trend. Videos will launch at different times of the day across the campaign’s social media platforms on Instagram and TikTok, reflecting how people affected by schizophrenia often have varied schedules.
“A schizophrenia diagnosis can be extremely challenging. Not only do the symptoms of schizophrenia potentially impact all aspects of a person’s life, but society often tells them that their diagnosis means they have to put their goals aside,” said
Learn more at LiveYourPosSCZible.com and follow Live Your PosSCZible on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.
About Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a persistent and often disabling mental illness impacting how a person thinks, feels and behaves, and affects nearly 24 million people worldwide, including 2.8 million people in the
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