Understanding Anosognosia
Anosognosia is a condition in which someone is unaware of their own mental health condition or cannot perceive it accurately. It’s a common but often misunderstood symptom in serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia. We’ve gathered some resources below to help you better understand about this condition.
What is Anosognosia?
A Talk with Dr. Randall White
In this insightful presentation, Dr. Randall White explores the challenges of anosognosia and its impact on treatment and recovery.
Below is a breakdown of key topics covered in the talk:
- 3:50 The Problem with Anosognosia
- 7:25 What Does “Lacking Insight” Mean in Anosognosia?
- 11:47 The Distinction Between Anosognosia vs Denial
- 18:05 Which mental disorders does it apply to?
- 22:29 Q&A (Fluctuations in insight, tests and diagnosis, early psychosis intervention programs, and family education)
- 33:52 What are the impacts?
- 36:39 Introduction to Dr Amador and LEAP
- 42:24 LEAP approach and research
- 47:29 Q&A (Cognitive enhancing medications, motivational interviewing, research in BC, other therapies, whether anosognosia is constant, how to encourage treatment, mental health housing and advocacy, long-term treatment, mental health certification and extended leaves, clozapine for schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder)
LEAP Method
The LEAP Method—Listen, Empathize, Agree, and Partner—is a communication strategy developed by Dr. Xavier Amador to build trust with individuals who don’t believe they’re ill. Rather than confronting or correcting, LEAP focuses on empathy, connection, and partnership. It’s designed to reduce conflict and support better outcomes in treatment and care.
To learn more, visit the LEAP Institute website, where you’ll find educational videos. You can also read Dr. Amador’s book I AM NOT SICK, I don’t need help!
Check out our book review or borrow it from our lending library.
Anosognosia: What TV Gets Wrong About Schizophrenia
Video by the Treatment Advocacy Center
In this powerful conversation, we hear firsthand how anosognosia shaped one family’s experience, affecting six siblings diagnosed with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. Their story sheds light on the mental health crisis, the failures of the psychiatric system, and the urgent need for better education, treatment, and compassion.
Further Reading
If you’re interested in learning more about this family’s experience, we highly recommend reading Hidden Valley Road: Inside the Mind of an American Family by Robert Kolker. The book offers an account of their journey and the broader implications for mental health understanding and treatment.
Share Your Thoughts
We’d love to hear your feedback—especially if you’ve explored the LEAP method.
- Have you learned this method?
- Do you experience barriers to implementing it?
- Have you noticed any changes or positive impacts it has had on your relationships?
Email us your thoughts at programs@pathwayssmi.org.
And if you found these resources helpful, please share them with anyone who might benefit.