Understanding schizophrenia

This blog discusses the topic of schizophrenia, which aims to help dismantle the stigmas revolving around it which could harm individuals severely. The blog entails what schizophrenia is, alongside its misconceptions and the treatments available. 

What is Schizophrenia? 

According to the NHS, schizophrenia is a long-term mental health condition that causes several psychological symptoms. As explained by Mind (2020) it is said that schizophrenia is related to psychosis.  Psychosis, also called a 'psychotic experience' or 'psychotic episode', is when people’s thoughts and perceptions of reality are disrupted, often involving hearing and seeing things that are not there (hallucinations), and believing things that are not true (delusions). Schizophrenia itself consists of positive symptoms, which are any change in behaviour or thoughts, and negative symptoms, where people appear to withdraw from the world around them, take no interest in everyday social interactions, and often appear emotionless and flat.

Misconceptions about schizophrenia  

There are various misconceptions and misleading ideas about what exactly schizophrenia is. This is due to the many stigmas surrounding schizophrenia, as although it is a topic that has been heard and researched about, it is still not fully understood.  Having schizophrenia does not mean having split personalities. It also does not mean that someone is dangerous or violent. People who have schizophrenia are more likely to be victims of crime as explained by Mind (2020). Schizophrenia is often associated with hearing voices which is one of the many symptoms of schizophrenia. Schizophrenia symptoms include, and are not limited to: hallucinations, delusions and disorganised thinking. It is not solely hearing voices as many would believe. People are born with schizophrenia, according to NHS (2019) but the exact cause of schizophrenia remains unknown. However, research conducted has shown a possibility for a combination of physical, genetic, psychological, and environmental factors which can make a person more likely to develop the condition.  

Treatment for Schizophrenia  

Although there is no cure for schizophrenia, there are ways to help individuals cope and function to allow them to live adequately. According to NHS (2023), schizophrenia is usually treated with an individually tailored combination of talking therapy and medicine. There is medication such as antipsychotics that are used to help acute schizophrenic episodes. As explained by Harrison C., there are methods of psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapies (CBT), family therapy and arts therapy. There is still so much to be learn about schizophrenia and its treatment to ensure individuals can take greater control of their lives.

Written by Glanelle K  

Moderated by Adelene G

Referencing List:  

NHS (2023). Schizophrenia. [online] nhs.uk. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/overview/ [Accessed 23/05/2024] 

Mind (2020). About schizophrenia | Mind, the mental health charity - help for mental health problems. [online] Mind.org.uk. Available at: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/schizophrenia/about-schizophrenia/ [Accessed 23/05/2024] 

NHS (2019). Causes - Schizophrenia. [online] nhs.uk. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/causes/ [Accessed 23/05/2024] 

NHS (2023). Treatment - Schizophrenia. [online] NHS. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/treatment/ [Accessed 24/05/2024] 

Harrison, C. (2022). What It’s Like to Have Schizophrenia. [online] Verywell Mind. Available at: https://www.verywellmind.com/the-internal-experience-of-schizophrenia-2953095 [Accessed 24/05/2024]