20. A British Psychologist Uses His Own Experiences With Schizophrenia To Help Others
Rufus May was diagnosed with schizophrenia when he was 18 years old after spending much of his teen years dealing with hallucinations and being hospitalized several times. He decided to stop taking psychotropic medications and instead focus on activities to promote personal well-being, including exercise, creative outlets, social relationships, and nutrition.
Today, Dr. May participates in many networks aimed at improving the quality of life for people living with schizophrenia and other serious mental illnesses. He uses his understanding of the disease to promote alternative treatments and therapies that are less restrictive and place the patient at the center of his or her own care.