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Ruth Johnston: Autism and Schizophrenia: A Mother's Fight for Change
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Ruth Johnston shares her harrowing journey as the mother of an autistic son who developed schizophrenia, and how this experience drove her to advocate for Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania following a family tragedy.
• Ruth's son was diagnosed with autism as a teenager, after she had already been homeschooling him for years
• Around age 13, he began showing signs of developing schizophrenia, though it took a decade to recognize the condition
• Current laws prevented intervention despite clear evidence of his deteriorating mental state
• Expert testimony revealed 5-34% of autistic individuals may develop schizophrenia as adults
• Anosognosia (inability to recognize one's own mental illness) prevents many from seeking help voluntarily
• AOT programs allow civil courts to mandate treatment before dangerous situations occur
• The "black robe effect" of a judge's order can help individuals comply with treatment
• Modern medications like Abilify can dramatically improve quality of life without severe side effects
• Patient advocacy groups often oppose AOT but don't represent those with severe schizophrenia
• Ruth founded AOT4AlleghenyCounty.com to advocate for these needed programs
To learn more about Ruth Johnston's advocacy efforts or to get involved, visit AOT4AlleghenyCounty.com or email [email protected].
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intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
Chapters
1. Ruth Johnston: Autism and Schizophrenia: A Mother's Fight for Change (00:00:00)
2. Introduction to "Humanity Over Handcuffs" (00:00:05)
3. Ruth's Son: From Autism to Schizophrenia (00:01:20)
4. Understanding Anosognosia and Mental Illness (00:04:35)
5. Legal Barriers to Mental Health Treatment (00:09:40)
6. Advocating for Assisted Outpatient Treatment (00:12:35)
7. Autism and Schizophrenia Connection (00:16:15)
8. The Impact of Effective Medication (00:21:39)
9. Opposing Forces and Patient Advocacy (00:24:45)
10. Call to Action and Closing Thoughts (00:29:15)
116 episodes
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