Schizophrenia Facts.....and personal comments

Good day all... It is Saturday, a cold, rainy Saturday.  Perfect day for writing.  I wanted to post some Schizophrenia facts today, and of course add my personal comments about my life with the illness.  Before I get to that, I would like to say that I have been having an amazing experience meeting new people on my Facebook group, Schizophrenia Online Connection.  I am thankful to have met such wonderful and understanding people. 
Okay, with that said, here are some facts that I think we all need to be aware of...
1. Many people living with Schizophrenia have a small loss of IQ.  The approximation is 8-10 points.
2. Approximately 68% of people living with schizophrenia drive vehicles.
3. If both mother and father have schizophrenia, there is a 36% chance that you will have the illness as well.
4. Schizophrenia is unbelievably neglected by mental health professionals.
5. "At least 40% of those living with schizophrenia are not receiving treatment at any given time" (SS)
6. Approximately 2.2% of the US population is living with schizophrenia.
This is just a tiny, tiny sample of facts on schizophrenia.  As a person living with paranoid schizophrenia, I have to say that it is just so complicated.  I have been having quite a bit of paranoia recently, and I have also been under some stress.  Lonliness is a BIG issue for me as well.  I find it very difficult many times to focus on things, and that is distressing to me, as before I was diagnosed with the illness, I was much more focused on things I was interested in.  The loss of interest that occurs with schizophrenia is also very difficult to deal with.  Through all of this, I am diligently working on coping skills to alleviate some of these symptoms.  It is not easy.  It takes consistent work and diligence, and I am hopeful that these symptoms will continue to dissipate.  Also, the holiday season seems to heighten depressive symptoms, which I am managing.  I do wish everyone a happy holiday season, and a wonderful new year. If you have any comments or questions, please let me know. Until tomorrrow-Erica