With up to 24 million people having schizophrenia, there is still a lot that we do not know. There are also so many misconceptions that the general public has about schizophrenia. The disorder remains mysterious to many and frightening to others. It’s time we cleared up the myths and reveal the truth behind schizophrenia.
What is schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a chronic mental health disorder that affects the way that a person views reality. The disorder affects the way that a person thinks, feels, and acts.
The person could be plagued by hallucinations, delusions, and little interest in life or relationships as well as issues with organization, memory, and follow through.
According to Nami.org, schizophrenia can happen at any age. However, it tends to happen in the “late teens to the early 20s for men, and the late 20s to early 30s for women”.
Although schizophrenia is a difficult and serious mental illness, it is possible to live a full and well life with it.
Causes
Although no one is entirely certain, there are several possible causes for schizophrenia. The cause could be genetic, environmental, brain chemistry, and/or substance abuse.
Early Signs
The early signs of schizophrenia could resemble depression. The person could change social groups, struggle in academia, have trouble sleeping, isolate themself, and become irritable.
Diagnosis
There is no single test for schizophrenia. Rather, the person needs to be observed and evaluated by a mental health care professional over the course of at least six months.
Now that we have a bit of an idea about what schizophrenia is, it’s time to breakdown the common misconceptions about the disorder.
Myth #1: It means you have split personality disorder
Schizophrenia is a thought disorder, not a personality disorder. The split that occurs within a person with schizophrenia is a break between how they feel, what they think, and how they act.
There are not multiple personalities, but rather a confusion between reality and a fantasy.
Myth #2: They can’t function in normal society
If a person seeks treatment for schizophrenia and become stable, they can function well. By taking the required medication and participating in routine treatment, the person could hold down a normal job and lead a successful life.
Myth #3: They are violent
Mainstream media and movies may have us thinking that someone with schizophrenia is a violent person, prone to outbursts and rages. However, it is more likely that those with schizophrenia are the victims of violence rather than the causes.
If the person is violent, this does not mean it is because of their schizophrenia. They were most likely a violent and aggressive person before the disorder.
Myth #4: Antipsychotic medication will make you a zombie
It is a common misconception that a person treated with medicine for schizophrenia is a aimless and empty void of a person. This only occurs if the person is not properly medicated or a symptom of the schizophrenia itself.
Myth #5: It is not reversible
Although it is a serious mental illness, a person diagnosed with schizophrenia still has plenty of reason to hope for a bright and well future. Especially if the disorder is diagnosed and treated early.
With medication and proper counseling, a person can lead a successful life with schizophrenia. It is great to involve families in the education process so that myths, such as those above, can be cleared up and the person can receive the best support they can.
If you have schizophrenia, you are not alone. It is not helpless. You can lead a rewarding and wonderful life with support and proper treatment.
Worried you or a loved one may have schizophrenia?