There is a perception that schizophrenia is both uncommon and impossible to treat. In fact, it affects about 650,000 people in the UK, 2.2 million in the US, and some 50 million globally; and, the treatment success rate with today's medication and therapy can be high.

It affects men and women in equal proportions, but often appears earlier in men. Symptoms are often terrifying and include visual and auditory hallucinations and acute paranoia, which may leave sufferers withdrawn, and incomprehensible or frightening to others.

Living with Schizophrenia aims to fill a gaping hole in the market for information and self-help guides by addressing the needs of people with schizophrenia and their carers, relatives, and friends. Topics include:

• Authoritative description of what schizophrenia is and isn't
• Information and support for families and friends; how they can help
• Diagnosis
• Physical treatments
• Psychological treatments (talking therapies)
• Social interventions
• Further help