The EUFAMI and Schizophreniförbundet (Swedish Schizophrenia Association) Joint Forum took place in Stockholm, Sweden, on 6–7 June 2025, bringing together members, experts, and individuals with lived experience to discuss schizophrenia, recovery, and family support.
The event began with opening remarks from Dr. Åsa Konradsson-Geuken, President of the Swedish Schizophrenia Association, alongside Andre Decraene, EUFAMI Vice-President. The first session featured powerful personal stories from SSA members Stefan Scott-Johansson, Peter Johansson, Lars Johan Rehn, and Linda Sundell, all of whom shared their experiences of living with schizophrenia and their paths to recovery. Their testimonies provided deep insight into the challenges and hopes of those affected by the condition.
The second part of the forum focused on some of EUFAMI’s key initiatives. Hanna Dziwosz, EUFAMI Project Assistant, presented The Reality of Schizophrenia project, followed by Jan-Erik Leppänen and Dr. Sladjana Ivezić, who discussed the Mental Health Care Project. Later, Dimitra Stefanopoulos, EUFAMI Communications Officer, along with John Saunders, Executive Director, and Andre Decraene, presented updates on the FAMILY Project.
A highlight of the event was the launch of the children’s book "When the Brain Gets Sick", authored by Dr. Klas Kullander and Dr. Åsa Konradsson-Geuken. The book, designed to help young people understand mental illness, was warmly received by attendees.
The following day, EUFAMI held its General Meeting, where leadership presented the organisation’s 2025 strategy, financial updates, and progress reports on current and past programmes. The discussions reinforced EUFAMI’s commitment to advocacy, education, and support for individuals and families affected by schizophrenia and other mental health conditions.
The event concluded on a positive note, with participants expressing gratitude for the shared knowledge, personal stories, and collaborative spirit that marked the two-day gathering.
