I live in a house with three roommates. A man, a woman and their nine month old son. I am twenty years old, and was told by two doctors when I was younger (perhaps four or five years ago) that I had schizophrenia. I was taken off of medication two years ago, for various reasons.

My housemates have expressed a deep concern over the fact that I am an unmedicated schizophrenic. I want to have a formal diagnosis made, and be put on medication. They also have expressed the desire to have me move out, as they feel I am a threat to their son. Therefore, I have a few questions.

I live in a small college town, first off. And have no job. I also have no insurance, no money, no nada.

How can I get a proper diagnosis made of the condition?
Is there any way that such a person could write something that would aid in removing me from the lease?
How long would something like that take?
Do you have any suggestions for getting around the trouble with money?
Are there any... legal repprocussions that could occur from having a formal diagnosis of schizophrenia? I've been told that schizos with papers tend to have a harder time getting work, and that some places are unable to hire them. I'm having a hard enough time trying to find work as is.

I am feeling very frustrated with the situation, but do not wish to be a burden to these people. Help of any sort would be appreciated.

First see if your college has a mental health clinic. Usually they do not charge a fee or the fee is small. They can also help you find a psychiatrist. Second, is it possible to ask your roommates for money so that you can see a psychiatrist. Third, there are health services such as MHMR that could offer you some good deals regarding low charges and medications. Fourth, just because you have a mental illness doesn't mean you deserve to be kicked out of your house. Unless you have been cutting, and hallucinating and talking non sense then maybe it makes sense to move out. Be sure to try and get involved with a church and with supportive people. As for getting a job, I am not sure about that but employers are not supposed to discriminate and you should not divulge any info about your mental health...I think that is how it goes.

Also make sure you see a Board Certified Psychiatrist. Not all psychiatrists are the same. Some are burnt out arrogant know it alls and some really want to help you.