Åsa Konradsson Geuken new chair of the Schizophrenia Association
At the Schizophrenia Association's Congress 2023, Åsa Konradsson Geuken, Senior lecturer at Uppsala University's Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, was elected new chair. "I am extremely honored by the trust shown in me by the association," says Åsa Konradsson Geuken.
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Åsa Konradsson Geuken, Senior lecturer and researcher at the Faculty of Pharmacy, has been elected new chair of the Swedish Schizophrenia Association. The organisation, embracing approximately 40 local chapters and 2,800 members, works to increase knowledge about schizophrenia and similar psychotic illnesses as well as the functional impairments these diseases bring.
“I am extremely honored by the trust shown in me by the Schizophrenia Association, something that also means a lot to me personally. When I was 14, my brother Mats developed schizophrenia, something that has since guided me in several life-changing decisions. Without it, I would not have gained my doctorate degree. And I certainly would not spend so much energy giving lectures on schizophrenia. My mission is to replace prejudice and fear with knowledge and curiosity, and I do it by providing facts and increased understanding,” says Åsa Konradsson Geuken.
The Schizophrenia Association was formed in 1987 and is today one of to the disability organisations recognised by the Swedish state. The association offers, among many things, a support line as well as education on what it is like to live with schizophrenia, the situation of children living in families with schizophrenia and how to provide help and support. The association's mission also includes being a united voice towards the government, parliament and central authorities.
“When I finish my work day at Uppsala University, my next “job” starts. I lecture, write books and debate articles and I am a board member at the Center for Women's Mental Health (WOMHER) and the European Federation of Associations of People With a Mental Illness (EUFAMI). My experience is that with increased insight, we can all find the courage to ask how someone is doing and dare to wait and listen for the answer. If we also make sure we have the knowledge to help a person in crisis, we have gathered the tools to save lives,” says Åsa Konradsson Geuken.
LEARN MORE
- Swedish Schizophrenia Association
- Research in Neuropharmacology and addiction at Uppsala University
- The Disciplinary Domain investing in Mental Health First Aid
CONTACT
(Image removed) Åsa Konradsson Geuken, Senior lecturer
Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences
Asa.Konradsson-Geuken@farmbio.uu.se
Text: Magnus Alsne, photo: Mikael Wallerstedt, private