In theory it shouldn't make a difference anymore than anyone else evaluating their strengths/ weaknesses with different situations. In practice- yeah you're going to catch some crap both for dealing with schizophrenia and being male. The good news is that most people will be accepting or at least willing to give you a chance to show what you can do. The problem is the people who will be opposed to it will seem to be the most vocal about it. I can't really give advice on how to deal with them as it's pretty individualized to your personality and the situation. Sometimes I'm polite with people who give me grief about being a guy in childcare. Other times….. well let's just say not so much.
My advice is go for it. Start slow and do a bunch of different things where you want to volunteer. That way more people see who you are and your skills. It also helps when the inevitable pain in the rear person starts stuff. Then you have a bunch of people on your side.
Good Luck!
