A tale of mental illness | Elyn Saks

What a remarkable woman. I read her book - a compelling story of her survival through schizophrenia. Amazing, smart and beautiful woman.

This speech went a long way in saving my life. 5 years ago I was diagnosed, and now I have a psychology B.S, and am looking toward graduate school to help people like me. This was the first time I felt like I could live with my illness, as opposed to my illness living through me. I still struggle, but this is an amazing experience.

"stop criminalizing mental illness"   Couldn't have said it better myself

We need more people like Elyn Saks willing to talk about their experiences so there's more dialogue and early detection can be possible.

13:57 "Don't take away my devils because my angels may flee too" That hit me hard

My Son is schizophrenic. His life's journey is a tough one. I am a bit more hopeful for his future after listening to this TED talk. I wanted to thank you.

I am schizophrenic since 19 now 25 horrible first 3 or 4 years then 2 years menial work know I have savings because this September I start law school at college here in Spain. We have good health system and the support of my family has been crucial stay strong, take your meds and do not do drugs always give 10 per cent more Hugs and kisses from Spain ❤️❤️😃😃🇪🇸🇪🇸

Well, I’m 21 and we ARE the generation that can CHANGE the face of mental health care in enormous ways. I plan on helping contribute.

This is why I am an advocate for mental illness. It almost killed me and I don't want it to hurt others. We need a reform. Plain and simple.

My brother was diagnosed with schizophrenia six years ago. I am sure that he would have ended up on the street if it weren't for the support he received from our family. The pain and grief that my family and I have felt while witnessing his struggles these past few years is tremendous. My heart aches for this woman and others like her. End the stigma, talk about mental health.

I believe a lot of people living homeless on the streets are just one good doctor away from living a normal life.....

I have great respect for people like this who on top of struggling with surviving the external world, survive the internal ones too.

"There are not schizophrenics. There are people with schizophrenia" <3

Her book "The center cannot hold: My journey through madness" was one of the best autobiographies!!! Hats off to her bravery!

I'm diagnosed paranoid schizophrenic. I'm crying but empowered.

This really hits home, I'm currently struggling with hallucinations and delusions caused by schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and chronic suicidality. Her bravery, perseverance, and intellect are all inspiring. Glad I watched this

the thought of spending any amount of time in restraints is absolutely terrifying.

As someone with Bipolar disorder, this speech really hit home. She spoke so well and articulately and courageously that , by the end, i was brought to tears. When it comes down to it, some days those with a mental heath condition are unable to move forward on their own and need help from others and this stigma prevents them from getting this help and living a fulfilling life. I hope that someday soon this stigma will turn into empathy, the way it should for other stigmas that are holding people back from truly living.  

Thank you Elyn, I absolutely loved your presentation. I am in my third year of a registered nursing degree, and I have witnessed my best friends battle with accepting her paranoid schitzophrenia for the last 7 years. The stigma and the grieving she has experienced as she continually battles with the vast changes to her own life has influenced me to become a mental health nurse, I find your story inspiring!

When she pointed out her husband my heart melted