What is Paranoid Schizophrenia
and OCD?

Rich has paranoid schizophrenia and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) which are treatable with medication. Living with paranoid schizophrenia and OCD can be a challenge, but not impossible. His illnesses must be managed at all times as he takes medication daily and must see a psychiatrist about every three to four months.

Paranoid schizophrenia is a mental illness which affects how a person thinks. To date, there is no cure, but there is one on the way, we hope. A paranoid schizophrenic may hear voices, see things that aren't real and be delusional. Sometimes, people who have paranoid schizophrenia do not know that they have the disorder which can go on for many years, if left untreated. Maybe you have a loved one with schizophrenia. Your loved one might not know they even have the illness and it might not be obvious. If you are in doubt, please seek professional help as schizophrenics treated as early as possible most likely can be treated and continue with a productive life, instead of losing productivity because of untreated mental illness which can be a tremendous disadvantage for the person and her or his family and friends, not to mention every one else affected because of their condition. A loss of productivity can be avoided or minimized by prompt and complete treatment. Of course, a person with schizophrenia and their family members should always seek professional advice.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) causes people to do things such as washing hands, cleaning, and other repetitive and excessive behavior. People with OCD might not know they have a mental illness. Of course, Rich's condition may or might not be the same or similar as another persons' OCD. Concerned people and their family members should always consult a professional for advice and not give up hope as there are others who have experienced the same condition.

A number of people who have these mental illnesses are employed, go to school, and even marry, if they want to. Just because someone is mentally ill doesn't mean that they are not a good person. Contrary to what is often portrayed in the news media and entertainment industry, most mentally ill people are not violent. Very few harm others.

If you are confronted by a mentally ill person and need help, please do not feel afraid-chances are the person will not harm you. Call the police if necessary.