Paula Tretkoff

I will be sixty years old in August and I live with paranoid schizophrenia, as did my mother, and, I suspect, her father. Despite the severity of my symptoms, I only received a correct diagnosis about ten years ago.

I am Professor in the Department of Mathematics at Texas A&M University, which shows that, even with undiagnosed mental health issues, it is possible to attain steady employment. I have recently come out at work about my schizophrenia and my colleagues have been awesome about it! My story is a long one, but the advice is short: as soon as you are in trouble seek help! Don’t necessarily rely on friends or family, do it yourself!

So much more is known now about mental illness than when I was young. It is treatable and no shame! If you are not satisfied with your therapist or psychiatrist, seek an alternate one. You have the choice and there are excellent doctors out there.

Remember, there is no blame associated with mental illness, so don’t get too bogged down in blaming others for where you are. Take control of your health yourself.