Difundindo e desmistificando a informação sobre o transtorno esquizofrênico por meio do design

Abstract

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder characterized by symptoms of psychosis, including distortion in thinking, perception, emotion, language, self-awareness, and behavior. It typically begins in males between the ages of 15 and 25, and in females between the ages of 25 and 35. In Brazil, there are more men with schizophrenia than women. Stigma is a significant barrier for individuals with the most severe form of the disorder, affecting their family, friends, healthcare professionals, and the media, potentially leading to self-stigma. In this context, stigma and lack of information prevent individuals with the disorder from seeking appropriate treatment, worsening the symptoms of the psychotic disorder and reducing their quality of life. Therefore, this work aims to disseminate information about schizophrenia by creating a booklet for young people aged 16 to 20. This will help them gain some understanding of the disorder and encourage them to seek specialized help at the onset of symptoms. The study utilized a combination of two information design methodologies by Peter Simlinger and Janice Redish, and an editorial design methodology for assembling the product—the booklet. Data collection involved a descriptive research approach to gain a better understanding of schizophrenia, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative methods. Through this process, a search for similar books and illustrations was conducted. The results consisted of the creation of an informative booklet about schizophrenia for the young audience, explaining what schizophrenia is, its symptoms, phases, causes, treatment, and where to seek help.