Famous People with Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a disabling mental disease that typically strikes those between the ages of 17 to 30. Men tend to begin developing symptoms of the disease earlier and women later. Many people imagine schizophrenics to be violent lunatics who "hear voices" and commit horrific acts. Nothing could be further from the truth. Schizophrenics prefer to be left alone as they tend to withdraw into their own world, finding it difficult to express their feelings and communicate with others.

No one knows what causes this disease. It is widely accepted, however, within the scientific community, that it is inherited as many people with this disease tend to have relatives who also suffer from schizophrenia. Scientists also believe that certain environmental factors, when interacted with genetics, play a significant role in a person developing this illness that strikes one percent of the population.

Although schizophrenia is not a common mental illness and strikes at a time when people are just beginning to experience life, many famous people have been diagnosed with this disorder. Because modern medications have enabled schizophrenics to lead more productive lives, many famous people with this disease have been able to continue with their careers.

Some famous people diagnosed with schizophrenia include:

Tom Harrell. The 57 year old Jazz musician is considered one of the most brilliant jazz artists of the day, despite his struggle with schizophrenia for the past 30 years. Fortunately, Harrell was able to overcome the odds and continues to both perform and record music. He recently released a new CD, "Light On" and continues to tour the country with his current quintet.

Meera Popkin. Popkin was the star of both "Cats" and "Miss Saigon" and appearing on Broadway when she was first diagnosed with schizophrenia. After several years of struggling with the illness, at which time she was reduced to waiting on tables, she began successful treatment and found her way back to the stage. In addition to her theatrical success, Popkin also found personal triumph as she is now happily married and has a three year old child.