Understanding Schizophrenia: Busting common Myths and Facts | Solh Wellness

Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness that affects a person's thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Symptoms include hallucinations, delusions, disordered thinking, disorganised speech, decreased emotional expression, and impaired social and vocational performance. The severity of the symptoms varies from person to person. The three types of schizophrenia symptoms are positive symptoms, negative symptoms, and cognitive symptoms. 

Despite the fact that schizophrenia can occur at any age, it is most commonly diagnosed in late adolescence or early adulthood. There may be an early stage marked by minor changes in behaviour and functioning (such as social withdrawal, a decline in functioning, and changes in emotions such as mood swings or increased irritability) prior to the onset of full-fledged symptoms.

Facts and Myths About Schizophrenia

There are numerous myths and misconceptions about it as well. Let us debunk some myths about schizophrenia and provide the facts:

Myth 1: People with schizophrenia have multiple or split personalities. 

This is one of the most widely held misconceptions about schizophrenia. The presence of multiple personas is not indicative of schizophrenia. This mental illness is distinguished by abnormal reality perceptions, disorganised thought and speech, and decreased emotional expression. 

Myth 2: Schizophrenia patients are violent and dangerous. 

The vast majority of schizophrenia patients do not engage in violent behaviour. In reality, patients with schizophrenia are more likely to be attacked than to attack others. Although the condition does not in and of itself cause aggression, factors such as drug use and a violent history can increase one's risk. 

Myth 3: Schizophrenia is caused by poor parenting or personal flaws. 

Schizophrenia is not the result of bad parenting or a weak personality. It is a complex disorder that is influenced by a variety of neurological, environmental, and genetic factors. Schizophrenia can be caused by genetics, brain chemistry changes, or traumatic life events. 

Myth 4: Schizophrenia makes it impossible for people to work or live productive lives. 

Many people with schizophrenia can lead productive lives if they are properly cared for and supported. Medication, therapy, and psychological therapies can all help with symptom management and functional improvement. Employment opportunities and social support networks are critical for promoting rehabilitation and societal integration. 

Myth 5: Schizophrenia is an uncommon illness. 

Schizophrenia affects more people than most people realise. The World Health Organisation estimates that there are 20 million cases of schizophrenia worldwide. People of all socioeconomic backgrounds, races, and cultures are affected. 

Myth 6: Schizophrenia is incurable. 

True, there is no cure for schizophrenia, but it can be managed. Several psychological and social therapies have been shown to reduce relapse rates and improve overall quality of life, including cognitive behavioural therapy and family support. Antipsychotic medications are frequently used to treat symptoms. 

Myth 7: Schizophrenia requires a life-long commitment to a mental institution. 

The belief that people with schizophrenia must spend their entire lives in mental hospitals is both outdated and false. With the proper care and support, many people with schizophrenia can live independently in the community. Patients with schizophrenia are expected to receive ongoing care and support from community-based mental health services. 

Conclusion

It is critical to distinguish between myths and facts in order to fully comprehend schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is a difficult and frequently misunderstood mental illness. By dispelling common myths about the disease, we can promote proper knowledge and understanding of the disease, resulting in empathy and encouragement for those living with schizophrenia.

When it comes to mental health, having a reliable source of information is critical. Solh Wellness strives to provide accurate information to its users through articles and information videos. With the right information and understanding of how to put those solutions into action, a person's life can be significantly improved. Download the Solh App to improve your mental health and quality of life.