How is schizophrenia regarded in Reform Judaism?

As I’ve begun to immerse myself in my local Jewish community, I have already met lots of people who have shown me nothing but kindness, welcoming, and curiosity. I couldn’t be happier.

I believe one thing that I should be transparent about in my journey is that I am a diagnosed schizophrenic.

As a bit of background information, I grew up non-denominational christian and, in my household, I was told that demons were at play and my schizophrenia, although diagnosed and medicated, was not real. This is many christian’s approach to severe mental illness, in my personal experience.

If my schizophrenia did not make spirituality slightly more difficult, I would probably only bring it up if I was actively episodic and needed some help– but I feel it necessary to mention my diagnosis to the synagogue’s Rabbi as my schizophrenia may play tricks on me during my journey.

However, I am nervous that this will change people’s perception of me and I will be seen as strange. I will say that I am medicated and genuinely happy, and I work hard to not appear strange to others so people seldom suspect there is even anything wrong– to which I am glad.

In your experience, how has the Jewish community– particularly and most relevant to me, the Reform Jewish community– treated people with schizophrenia? Is this something I should even talk about? Or should I just be genuine and pray for the best? Thank you all!