Schizophrenia = Single

Does a schizophrenia diagnosis ensure a lifetime of loneliness? For many individuals that I know of, it does. On the social networking/therapy site schizophrenia.com we discuss our single romantic status and the corresponding loneliness that goes along with it. I think that schizophrenic men may be more impacted than women, as they are traditionally expected to assume the role of financial provider.  Due to our illness, many of us do not work and rely on disability paychecks to survive. The disability check does not go very far and most of us are at poverty level. This prevents us from being considered hot romantic prospects. Many accept this fact and do not even attempt dating or leaving dysfunctional/abusive relationships.  It’s a very sad state of affairs when your illness is stigmatized and discriminated against by the vast majority of the dating pool.

Friendships are abandoned at schizophrenia onset, as we are considered too needy, to be fun and carefree anymore. Potential romantic partners are even harder to intrigue and maintain. At what point, should you disclose that you are schizophrenic? Never? Most of us remain committed to our own singlehood and self care.