Schizophrenia Isolates Millions-This New Platform Could Change That

Eric S., 45 spent years with delusions before he found the right treatment, but he felt isolated from others.

"One of the hardest realities of schizophrenia is the isolation that it creates," says Eric who was diagnosed with schizophrenia in his 20's. His treatment plan includes medication and therapy. But people need community, as he discovered.

HomeGroundTM Schizophrenia Community

To meet the practical and emotional needs of patients, Teva Pharmaceuticals has launched HomeGroundTM Schizophrenia Community as a centralized place to find connection and insights to help people with their day-to-day lives. The online community includes symptom-tracking and management tools, emotional wellness, independent living, physical health, and both in-person and virtual events.

"Schizophrenia care doesn't end with diagnosis and a prescription. The day-to-day realities, including isolation, can be very challenging and addressing these barriers is important for the recovery journey," said Dan Laitman, a Home Ground Ambassador and community advocate living with schizophrenia.

An Advocate's Perspective

Eric is an independent consultant who speaks at colleges to be an advocate for students.

"Being an advocate and creating a community is about making it easier for individuals and families to stay engaged, supported, and seen."

He's glad there is a platform for people who are recently diagnosed and need support.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

Teva Pharmaceuticals launched Home Ground Schizophrenia Community as the lead-up to Mental Health Awareness month.

"The Home Ground community is incredible, and I see it as a tool that helps people work toward their individual goals for stability and independence while also providing community support. Definitely not a replacement for psychiatry, for counseling," Eric says, emphasizing that it's one tool in the toolbox, not a replacement for medical care.

What is Schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a mental health condition that disrupts thought processes, perceptions, emotional responses, and social interactions. It's estimated to affect approximately 3.7 million people in the United States.

The National Institutes of Mental Health lists some of the following symptoms that people experience:

• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Unstable mood
• Movement issues
• Reduces motivation to accomplish goals
• Difficulty in social relationships

The Other Side

Although Eric's path to healing wasn't easy or linear, he's very successful in his life and happy with his path.

"Truly beyond my wildest dreams," he said. He was appointed as commissioner of Texas Judicial Commission on Mental Health. He does a lot of public speaking and is a five-time guest lecturer for Stanford University law students.

While medical treatments address the clinical symptoms of schizophrenia, the human need for connection remains a vital part of the equation. By providing a "centralized place" for resources and peer support, HomeGround ensures that no one has to navigate the complexities of the condition in isolation.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on May 2, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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This story was originally published May 2, 2026 at 12:44 PM.