In the article below from Psychology Today, Scott Barry Kaufman discusses the potential for genius in those who are challenged with schizophrenia. For many in the research field, the idea of heightened intelligence in those with schizophrenia is a sentimental myth, primarily because the research has previously shown lower IQ scores on the whole from those with the condition. What I like about this article is that it looks at the other side of "intelligence" and focuses on research when it comes to creativity. My read on the conclusions of scientists who don't see higher intelligence in those with schizophrenia and other mental health challenges is that they are only looking at intelligence in one way, as expressed through intellectual quotient testing. From artists like Yayoi Kusama (now on exhibit at the High Museum of Art in Midtown Atlanta) to, closer to home, Jerome Lawrence, the creative potential of individuals with mental health challenges is very evident. Mr. Kaufman relates some research that points to lower levels of information filtering in those with schizophrenia and the potential for higher ceilings when it comes to artistic expression. It may not be IQ as we have come to know intelligence, but that they are accessing parts of the mind that we without those challenges cannot. Check it out:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/beautiful-minds/200903/schizophrenic-thought-madness-or-potential-genius