Sir, I refer to the article (May 21st) on psychologist, Tony Humphreys, "The Power of Negative Thinking"
It seems very strange that a well qualified professional is so out of touch with the vast body of research which has proven that schizophrenia is a clinical medical illness, not caused by environmental factors. His archaic views on the illness also deny logic. If, as Dr Humphreys believes, the illness is the result of "a fear based in our earliest experiences of emotional abandonment by our parents", why is it that only one person in a family might develop the illness? It has been proven over and over, that schizophrenia is not caused by families.
He also states that drug treatment fails to treat the cause of the illness. No one has ever suggested that it is meant to do so. There is as yet, no known cause to this illness, and therefore no known cure, but work is ongoing in the area, and some progress is being made. Drug treatment plays an extremely important part in helping people manage the symptoms and cope with the illness. The drugs which are used to treat the illness can greatly increase the quality of life of the individual and help them play a meaningful role in our society.
Dr Humphreys's views display a very clear misunderstanding of schizophrenia and the issues around the illness. Schizophrenia is recognised as the most disabling mental illness which directly affects up to 35,000 Irish people and indirectly affects all of their family. It is not caused by environmental or parental factors. The burden of schizophrenia is exacerbated by the lack of understanding and the stigma associated with having a mental illness. Dr Humphreys has added to this burden.
Perhaps this man should think about the power which his negative writings have on the life of people with schizophrenia and their carers. There are vast number of parents in this country who have dedicated their lives to helping the person cope with the illness, giving love, understanding, physical, emotional and financial care. Dr Humphreys attaches great importance to self confidence and self esteem, yet has shattered it for people with schizophrenia and their families, by making unsubstantiated claims about the illness. Yours, etc., Communications Assistant, Schizophrenia Ireland, Fitzwilliam Place, Dublin 2.