Teva study finds 64% of schizophrenia patients fear never living a normal life

A Teva‑commissioned report titled “Beyond the Visible: uncovering hidden factors and the impact of stigma on schizophrenia” surveyed 182 patients and caregivers across Europe, including 30 participants from Spain. The study shows that 64 % of people diagnosed with schizophrenia fear they will never be able to lead a normal life, 91 % say stigma negatively shapes how others perceive them, and 65 % report rarely having a “good day.” Respondents also cite difficulties maintaining friendships (68 %) and a strong impact on employment (74 %).

Marina Díaz Marsá, president of the Spanish Society of Psychiatry and Mental Health (SEPSM) and head of the Special Units at Hospital Clínico San Carlos, described stigma as a “second burden” that hampers treatment adherence, fuels social isolation, reduces educational and job opportunities, and raises the risk of depression, hopelessness and suicide. The report calls for greater resources and targeted support for patients and their caregivers.