Previous research has supported the notion that labels serve as a precursor to self parody by individuals pigeonholed by a label, and these individuals forced to perform as the thing the label represents to others. 

"I am an open wound, hear my cries, smell my blood, my tears.And now smell yours as I stab you a second time and third you academic cunt."- 

First Person Accounts 

An introduction to First Person Accounts by Laura Rowland, Associate Editor of Schizophrenia Bulletin:

First person accounts are an accessible, educational source for those trying to gain insight into the first-hand experience of severe mental illness. This is particularly helpful for students studying psychology or neuroscience, basic scientists working on models of mental illness, and family members trying to better understand a relative with mental illness.

First person accounts place the illness in the context of real lives and vividly illustrate how someone's life has changed. The stories range from accounts of constant struggle to narratives of hope and recovery. Uniquely individual, they do not necessarily generalize to others, but their experiential diversity reflects the heterogeneity of mental illness.

An appreciation of the impact made by severe mental illness helps humanize the condition, foster empathy and compassion, reduce stigma, and generate hope. First person accounts also enhance societal appreciation of the human condition compromised by severe mental illness.
 

Laura M. Rowland
Associate Editor, Schizophrenia Bulletin

In addition to the articles below, we invite you to explore a gallery of patient artwork that have been featured on covers of Schizophrenia Bulletin and to read patient blog entries