We Are Functioning Podcast

As I sit down to share our family’s journey with schizophrenia, I’m reminded of the intricate tapestry of cultures that have shaped our experiences and perceptions. Schizophrenia, a condition that affects 1% of the population regardless of culture or class, weaves its way through our lives, leaving a profound impact on our understanding of family, stigma, treatment, and healing.

Cultural Influences

Growing up in a biracial household—African American and English with a touch of German—I’ve always felt like I was straddling two worlds. It’s akin to bouncing between sweet potato pie and pumpkin pie, collard greens and green bean casserole. Different flavors, yet all part of the same meal. Similarly, schizophrenia manifests differently within cultural contexts, shaping how families perceive, discuss, and address the condition.

In my African American family, whispers of mental illness were ever-present, woven into the fabric of our lives. I vividly recall the cryptic warnings from my play uncle, Butch, who would casually mention, “You know your daddy is crazy.” As a curious and confused six-year-old, I grappled with the notion of my father’s illness, trying to make sense of behaviors that seemed erratic and bewildering. It wasn’t until later that the full weight of schizophrenia’s impact became apparent.

Battling Stigma

Throughout many discussions, one theme emerges clearly: the pervasive stigma surrounding schizophrenia. In many cultures, silence often shrouds mental illness, perpetuating generations of misunderstanding and social stigma. Yet, amidst the silence, there is resilience, love, and the unwavering support of family members like my great grandma Nani, who provided a steady anchor amidst the chaos.

Intersection of Culture and Healing

As we dove into treatments, the intersection of culture and healing became evident. Traditional approaches vary, from the use of street drugs as “medicine” in some families to the reliance on Western pharmacology in others. My own exploration led me to orthomolecular medicine, inspired by the groundbreaking work of Dr. Abram Hoffer, whose research challenged conventional notions of treatment.

Spirituality in Healing

I often found myself discussing the role of spirituality in healing, which can be another layer of complexity. While faith holds a significant place in many cultures, including African American and evangelical communities, it cannot be viewed as a single solution for schizophrenia. The spiritual journey of those affected by schizophrenia is fraught with questions of good and evil, yet it is grounded in the tangible realities of mind, body, and spirit.

Advocacy and Understanding

While I am not a medical professional, I hope to spark dialogue, challenge stigmas, and provide a beacon of understanding for those grappling with this complex condition. I hope that by sharing our journey of resilience and the enduring belief in the power of community to overcome adversity, together we navigate the winding roads of schizophrenia. We can draw strength from our diverse cultural tapestry and the bonds of shared experience as we find hope for advocacy, understanding, and healing.

Wendy Cannon-Gunn
Lovey