In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month and just ahead of World Schizophrenia Awareness Day, Broadway, television, and movie actor and author Taye Diggs and his sister— Christian Diggs, who was diagnosed with schizophrenia as a young adult — hosted the “Express Your PosSCZible: Talent Showcase.”
The goal of the event was to highlight performances from individuals living with schizophrenia and to bring the community together in an effort to share their powerful stories in music, poetry, comedy, and other performing arts.
Taye interviewed with Our Weekly to discuss the event and how he and his sister’s lives changed when she was diagnosed.
Q: After learning about your sister’s diagnosis, did you reminisce about your childhood and notice any early signs of her illness?
A: I did not because, in her situation, the symptoms came on later in life. Schizophrenia is a persistent and often disabling mental illness affecting how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. Christian was previously diagnosed with schizophrenia in her 20s. Today, she lives with schizophrenia symptoms, as well as mood disorder symptoms.
Q: What was your transition like, having to alter your role and responsibilities as an older brother?
A: When Christian was diagnosed, I had certain ideas about how she was going to act. As her big brother, I felt I had no control and just felt helpless. But seeing how she handled the situation helped me understand this condition and changed me. I dismissed all those ideas of what I thought I was dealing with. It taught me to be more open and understanding in the moment with myself, Christian, my other brothers and sisters, and my mom. Witnessing how she adjusted and rebuilt her life has been so inspiring.
Q: What was your first source besides TV to learn about?schizophrenia?
A: Christian. I learned what it means to be strong and vulnerable enough to have uncomfortable conversations and the courage to apologize, open up, and be more inquisitive. I learned the importance of support and have seen firsthand how much people living with schizophrenia can accomplish when they are supported and seen. One of the biggest things that contributed to my sister achieving everything was finding the right care team, including a therapist and psychiatrist. Christian is also close to our family. We support her as her care partners.
Q: What impact are you looking to make with the event and your partnership with Bristol Myers Squibb?
A: Society often tells people living with schizophrenia that they can’t live a full life and that they have to put their goals and ambitions aside. I’m proud to continue partnering with Bristol Myers Squibb for this campaign to spotlight the remarkable stories and unique talents of the schizophrenia community through the Express Your PosSCZible Talent Showcase. By celebrating the creativity and aspirations of those with schizophrenia, we hope to show what’s possible—and encourage others to pursue their dreams and talents— and I’m pretty excited about that.
Q: How is your sister doing?
A: Today, Christian lives independently, enjoys yoga and dance, and works in a job she loves as a carpenter in construction. It’s always great to see my sister when she’s doing well while I’m not with her. It’s not always like what you see on TV and in movies, and I have seen through my sister how much people living with schizophrenia can achieve. She is truly living. I am proud of all that she has accomplished and am excited for her future.
Q: What is some advice for people dealing with schizophrenia or people who have loved ones with it?
A: It’s always going to be a journey. People living with schizophrenia should know that they are not alone—there is a whole community of people going through similar struggles and working to find ways to dream and thrive. I hope through real-life stories like Christian’s and the performers from the Express Your PosSCZible event, we can help empower others to identify and pursue their goals. People can visit LiveYourPoSCZible.com to learn more about this initiative and hear more stories from the community.