I'm Still Here: The Truth about Schizophrenia; Inside Schizophrenia

Did you know that schizophrenia is much more common than muscular dystrophy, striking as many people as epilepsy does? Or that it is sometimes a fatal disease, in that 10% of its sufferers commit suicide? Inside Schizophrenia is a somber tape intended for "students in mental health, nursing, and social work," which contains powerful interviews with several schizophrenics and their families, the weary-looking families of two of that 10%, and psychiatrist Anne Basset. The on-screen schizophrenics are able to function because of the medications they take, but the names of these drugs are not mentioned, nor are viewers offered any information/support group numbers. Though well-done and informative, this tape presents a dark picture indeed, one not really intended for families of the newly diagnosed, but more for credentialed caregivers. As such, it is recommended for academic collections only. Aud: C.By contrast, I'm Still Here: The Truth about Schizophrenia, while a bit short on facts and heavy on experience, is a mostly hopeful view of an illness that is only now beginning to be understood as a brain disorder. Interviewed are many different health and social-work professionals, families, and schizophrenics, including Fred Frese, the director of psychology at a state mental institution where 10 years ago he himself had been confined with the disease. A few of the newly helpful medications are mentioned, and the on-screen ill are literate, talented, and inspiring--even the markedly well adjusted man who, sadly, committed suicide a month after his segment was filmed. Recommended for most public collections. Aud: P. (K. Glaser)