First person account: schizophrenia through a sister's eyes--the burden of invisible baggage.

Abstract

In this essay, I give a detailed account of the impact my older brother's schizophrenia has had on my life, describing our changing relationship from childhood through adolescence and early adulthood. I attempt to analyze and understand the emotional separation from my brother that has been necessary to my survival and personal growth, as well as experiencing the deep sense of loss and sorrow that has accompanied that separation.