SZ Magazine is the only magazine in Canada and the United States dedicated specifically to providing content about schizophrenia. SZ was launched in 1994 by Bill MacPhee, who envisioned a magazine that could reach out and help those affected by schizophrenia.
After being diagnosed with schizophrenia at the age of 24 and struggling with his diagnosis, Bill wanted to create a publication for those in the same situation that would act as an informative guide and inspiration. He has first-hand knowledge of the isolation and suffering felt by those with the disorder and wanted to offer a resource that was not available to him when he was diagnosed.
Bill created Magpie Media in March 1994 and printed the first issue of SZ Magazine in June of the same year. SZ magazine is a mental wellness publication for the 1% of people worldwide diagnosed with schizophrenia. It provides up to date news, research, and information from around the world. The magazine includes professional content as well as personal stories and interviews from those affected both directly and indirectly by schizophrenia. The magazine is an informative resource for both those living with the illness as well as caregivers and professionals.
Watching the magazine grow to a professional, quarterly publication, Bill launched a U.S. edition in 2003 to address the needs of the large American community impacted by schizophrenia: 3+ million individuals living with schizophrenia, their caregivers, and medical professionals.
SZ Magazine continued to grow, launching www.mentalwellnesstoday.com to provide even more resources for those impacted by schizophrenia. This website has many features, including back issues, informative articles, free newsletters, blogs, and much more.
Today, SZ Magazine has a combined annual Canadian and American readership of 180,000 people and has been the recipient of numerous media and mental health awards. The magazine not only reaches those living with schizophrenia and their families, but is a resource for doctors, government representatives, and mental health professionals as well.