The official schizophrenia organization
in Sweden
How does it feel to live close to a person
who suffers from schizophrenia? The members of Schizofreniförbundet
- a Swedish association of families of mentally ill people - are
among those who are best aware of these things. Most of the members
are relatives of individuals with psychotic illnesses. Half of the
members of the board are relatives and half are mentally impaired
people.
 About
35 000 people in Sweden are diagnosed with schizophrenia. The first
Swedish interest group for these individuals, IFS, was created in
1979 by patients and staff at Lillhagen’s hospital in Gothenburg.
It was formed because the founders realized that patients with schizophrenia
are a neglected group even in comparison with other mentally ill
people. A national organization, RIKS-IFS, was formed in 1987. Today,
there are about 80 local associations and a little more than 5000
members. Since 2001, the national organization is named Schizofreniförbundet,
and today people with experiences of other psychotic and mental
disturbances are welcome too.
Schizofreniförbundet works for the rights
of mentally impaired people and wants to help them live an independent
and meaningful life. One of the most important functions of this
association is to try to reduce the prejudices against schizophrenia
in society and spread knowledge about this illness. Another important
function is to create respect for sick people and their relatives.
The interest group also works to develop and improve the care and
rehabilitation of the patients. Today, the possibilities to receive
help and support vary considerably between different locations.
Schizofreniförbundet and its local organizations are also important
lobbying groups in the Swedish society. The organizations participate
as experts, and as a body to which a proposed measure is referred
for consideration, in certain national investigations.
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