Don is the patriarch of the Galvin family, a reserved yet intellectually inclined man whose career in the Air Force culminates in a civilian diplomatic role. His struggles with health later in life impact his ability to be an active participant in family issues.

Donald is the eldest son of the Galvin family, who initially embodies his father's interests and ambitions but later struggles with schizophrenia, affecting his life trajectory. His affection for birdwatching and music provides continuity with his earlier interests.

Jim is the second Galvin son, defined by his rebellious nature and his rivalry with his brother Donald. His later life is overtaken by issues stemming from his own mental health struggles.

John is a Galvin son who pursues a peaceful life in music education, avoiding involvement in family turmoil. His interests in music and the outdoors highlight his personality’s contrast within the larger family.

Brian is noted for his musical talents and early success, though these are overshadowed by personal struggles and a tragic outcome. His life path deeply impacts the course of familial history.

Michael is a free-spirited member of the Galvin family, known for his non-conformity and suspicion of psychiatric diagnoses due to personal experiences. He plays various roles throughout his adult life, adapting to different careers.

Richard is an entrepreneurial and ambitious sibling who often finds himself in precarious situations, resulting from his aversion to facing the family's mental health history. His relationship with the family is complex and evolves over time.

Joe is one of the "hockey brothers" who grapples with schizophrenia later in life, showing insight into his condition. His mental health journey parallels his brothers’ experiences while retaining his gentle nature.

Mark is an intelligent and empathetic younger Galvin brother who struggles with the implications of his family's mental health legacy, opting for a simpler life path to manage his emotions and sensitivities.

Matt is a Galvin sibling known for his artistic talent and struggles with mental illness, eventually achieving relative independence with medical intervention. He maintains a connection with the community through volunteer work.

Peter is the youngest Galvin son who faces significant challenges from early adolescence, often experiencing the consequences of misdiagnosis. Despite his obstacles, he retains optimism and his musical passion.

Margaret is the first Galvin daughter, marked by the chaotic environment of her upbringing and later intimate struggles. Through creative pursuits and family relationships, she seeks peace and distance from family tumult.

Lindsay, the youngest Galvin child, is shaped by resilience and resourcefulness due to her family's situation. As an adult, she works to aid her siblings while reconciling her past with the family's ongoing challenges.

Lynn DeLisi is a pioneering psychiatrist and researcher whose work on the genetic aspects of schizophrenia intersects with the Galvin family's experience, offering insights into the disorder's complexities.

Robert Freedman is a psychiatrist who explores sensory processing issues in schizophrenia, suggesting the importance of prenatal factors. His ongoing research efforts aim to contribute new perspectives on managing the disorder.

The Garys are friends of the Galvin family who provide both emotional and financial support, sharing a parallel struggle with their own family's hereditary disease. Their involvement exemplifies the familial and communal bonds in the face of adversity.

Stefan McDonough collaborates with Lynn DeLisi in the genetic research of schizophrenia, contributing to a deeper understanding of the illness by investigating genetic mutations.

Fromm-Reichmann was a psychotherapist in the mid-20th century who influenced the psychoanalytical view of schizophrenia, blending her therapeutic innovations with periods of critique regarding her theoretical perspectives.

Schreber was a significant figure in the historical discussions of schizophrenia, with his memoirs reflecting delusional thinking while influencing psychoanalytic theories of the time.

David Rosenthal was a psychologist renowned for his genetic research on schizophrenia, especially his studies of familial cases which laid the groundwork for future explorations of the nature-nurture dynamics in mental health.

Jack Rauch, Lindsay's son, faced challenges with ADD and behavioral issues but ultimately found resolution through therapeutic interventions. His experiences highlight the subtleties of planned mental health interventions.

Kate, Lindsay's daughter, overcame early sensory issues with support, ultimately pursuing a career in schizophrenia research. Her academic endeavors bring a sense of hope and potential resolution to her family's broader narrative.