Untreated SMI | Treatment Advocacy Center

When people with severe mental illness (SMI) are unable to access or receive quality treatment, it can have profound consequences, potentially leading to very tragic outcomes. Click below to explore the impacts of untreated SMI on individuals, families, and communities.

Deterioration

Untreated psychosis can cause lasting damage to the brain.

Criminalization

There are more people with SMI in correctional facilities than state psychiatric hospitals.

Victimization

Experiencing victimization is the rule rather than the exception for people with SMI.

Suicide

People with SMI are at very high risk for suicidal behaviors.

Violence

Most violence committed by people with SMI is directed towards family members.

Homelessness

At least one in three people experiencing homelessness have SMI.

Schizophrenia Treatment Fast Facts

A recent prevalence study identified the percentage of people with schizophrenia spectrum disorders who received any treatment in the past year. However, it is important to note that the percentage of people with schizophrenia receiving effective, evidence-based treatment is likely much lower.

27 %

people with schizophrenia who receive no treatment at all.

34 %

people with schizophrenia who receive no outpatient treatment.

31 %

people with schizophrenia who receive no medication.

11 %

people with schizophrenia who receive inpatient treatment.

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