Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a serious disorder that affects how you think, feel, and act. It may be difficult for people with schizophrenia to distinguish real life from hallucinations or delusions. Worldwide, schizophrenia impacts about one percent of the population — more than 23 million people.

There are a lot of common misconceptions surrounding schizophrenia. It can be perceived as a violent condition, but in all likelihood, the vast majority of people with schizophrenia don’t pose a danger to others. A person with Schizophrenia does not have a split personality or multiple personalities (Dissociative Identity Disorder).

What does schizophrenia feel like?

Schizophrenia can develop in a few different ways and over different lengths of time. For some, it is hereditary or it is an abnormality in the brain’s chemistry and structure. It could also be a result of viral infections or immune disorders. Schizophrenia looks different for every individual, but here are the most common symptoms: 

• Hallucinations

• Abnormal behavior

• Delusions or false ideas

• Disordered thinking 

• Disorganized speech

• Disconnected or apathetic emotions

• Social withdrawal

• Lack of initiative 

How to live with schizophrenia

Treatment for schizophrenia is focused mostly on the elimination of symptoms. People with schizophrenia likely require lifelong treatment, but sticking with a treatment plan can help you lead a fulfilling life. 

Talk about it

More than fifty percent of people with schizophrenia aren’t receiving the appropriate treatment and care. If you’re experiencing some of the symptoms listed above, talking through it with someone could lead you to find the proper support and information. 

Therapy

Therapy can be an amazing resource to help you understand and live with the symptoms of schizophrenia. If you think that the cost of therapy won’t fit with your budget, here are five out-of-the-box ways to work therapy into your life.

Medication

Medication can help reduce the chemical imbalances that can trigger schizophrenia, and it can decrease the chance of relapse. Your doctor can help you find the proper medication in order to help alleviate the symptoms that you’re experiencing. 

Psychosocial Treatments

This type of treatment can include therapy, education, support groups, supported employment, case management, and other resources that are aimed to support, educate, and guide you through schizophrenia. Check with a community mental health center or your healthcare provider to see what psychosocial services may be available to you. 

Take a free mental health screen

A mental health screen is a simple series of questions to help you check in with your mental health. Mental Health America’s online screening tool is free, confidential, and available 24/7. Your results aren’t a diagnosis, but they’re a great place to start and a baseline to figure out next steps. We encourage you to share them with your doctor so they can help you get any support you may need.