Nor does it stop him from holding down a serious job or from getting a biotechnology degree from RMIT University in Melbourne.

All it means is Matt has to manage the mental health condition through a combination of medication and lifestyle choices in the same way a diabetic has to manage their condition.

"I certainly think there are still a lot of people who think someone with schizophrenia is sitting in a corner rocking back and forth," Matt said.

"But I have a degree, two diplomas and I've been learning Japanese over the past couple of years."

Next week the Wagga Mental Health Committee (WMHC) will host SAW through Stigma as part of National Schizophrenia Awareness Week, which begins on May 12.

The seminar will include a range of presentations from general practitioners, mental health nurses, psychologists and people who have managed the condition long term, with the aim of providing insight and education for those affected.

Sunflower Family Services community development officer Anita McRae said the seminar was useful for anyone dealing with a diagnosis or who had a loved one with the condition.

"Treatment in schizophrenia has taken significant leaps forward, especially in terms of the recovery and management model," Ms McRae said.

Ms McRae said language remained an important factor.

"We need to stop using terms like 'schizo' and start shedding more light on the condition."

The program is being funded by a grant from Wagga City Council and is held in conjunction with the Schizophrenia Fellowship of NSW, Murrumbidgee Medicare Local, Grow NSW and Murrumbidgee Local Health District.

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Next Tuesday between 10.30am and 1.30pm the Wagga Mental Health Committee will host SAW through the Stigma as part of National Schizophrenia Awareness Week at Cache cafe.