Let’s clarify some myths about Schizophrenia

Let’s clarify some myths about Schizophrenia

Psychological disorders are quite the umbrella term for several mental illnesses, especially nowadays in the era of the internet and social media it is one of the commonly used terms and is often misused and misunderstood by people. It is one such mental illness that has been broadly highlighted in popular culture and movies however, are often presented in a bad light and poorly understood like most other psychological disorders. This article will go into the complexities of schizophrenia, looking at its symptoms, causes, and treatment while stating the common myths surrounding the disorder. I hope that by casting light on this issue, we might foster a better understanding and reduce the stigma associated with it.

What is Schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a psychiatric condition that causes disruptions in a person’s thoughts, feelings, perceptions, and behaviors. It usually starts in late adolescence or early adulthood, but it can happen at any age. The condition affects both men and women equally and affects about 1% of the world’s population. It is a complex and difficult mental condition that affects millions of people around the world.

Common myths attached to schizophrenia and its reality:

1. People with schizophrenia are violent and aggressive

Reality: As portrayed in mainstream media, schizophrenic patients are often considered violent and aggressive in nature and are mostly serial killers or nuisances to society. In reality, people with schizophrenia are rather a threat to themselves than they are to others. They need self-care depending on the severity of their symptoms. Most of the time their occasional outbursts are due to the result of fear for being and conspired against.

2. People with schizophrenia are low in intellect

Reality: Although schizophrenia can cause decreased or low self-care as well as cause disruption in performing normal and everyday tasks, Schizophrenic patients are not low in intellectuality many of them are world-renowned artists and scientists, meaning they can also be full of creativity and higher IQ. There is no direct relationship between the level of intelligence and schizophrenia.

3. Schizophrenia is an illness denoted by multiple personalities.

Reality: It is often misunderstood as split personality disorder or multiple personalities, which are both different things. Schizophrenia is a separate mental condition that affects a person’s way of thinking, emotion, and the way they perceive the world. There is no presence of any multiple personality or any other kinds of personality disorders.

4. Schizophreniac patients require mental asylum

Reality: It is true that certain cases of severe schizophrenia require hospitalization for proper medical attention and to ensure there is no relapse (The return of a disease or the signs and symptoms of a disease after a period of improvement.)in the condition which can be checked properly in the hospital however the majority of schizophrenic patients are treated at home. With proper medication, sleep and care schizophrenia can be treated at home.

5. Schizophrenia is caused by a bad parenting style

Reality: Parents are blamed for schizophrenia, especially mothers but, It is not caused by parent’s bad parenting choices. It is a complex disorder that can have a biological and environmental basis. It is wrong to assume and blame parents for this condition.

6. Schizophrenia is a life-long condition hence cannot be treated

Reality: While schizophrenic patients require assistance and care in life, It can be cured using a combination of proper medication, sleep, care, and psychotherapy. A proper intervention guided by the presence of a medical practitioner as well as a psychologist is mandatory to ensure an individual’s recovery and maintenance of the disorder.

7. Schizophrenic parents must have schizophrenic children

Reality: In schizophrenia, genes do play an important role in carrying the disorder from parents to their children but it does not necessarily mean the children will be guaranteed to be affected. Various other factors such as nutrition, and trauma can increase the chances too.

8.People with schizophrenia cannot live a healthy life

Reality: It does not necessarily put an end to everyday life instead patients with the disorder can return to their original routine under minor supervision by family members. After recovery or under partial medication, people with schizophrenia can always return to their normal life. They can still perform their jobs, as a normal individual.

Treatment Plan

Treatment for schizophrenia usually involves a multifaceted approach that meets the needs of the individual: Individuals with schizophrenia can manage their symptoms and thrive in their daily lives with early intervention, effective therapy, and a thorough support network.
Antipsychotic medicines are the primary treatment for symptom management. These drugs aid in the reduction of hallucinations, delusions, and other psychotic symptoms. Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can assist individuals in developing coping mechanisms, improving social skills, and improving overall functioning.

Supportive Services: Individuals with schizophrenia might benefit from peer support, vocational training, and assisted housing programs.

Living with schizophrenia can be difficult, but with the right medication and support, many people can have successful lives. It is critical to create a supportive environment, learn about the disease, and develop understanding and empathy.
It is a complex mental condition that affects people all over the world. We can assist lessen the stigma associated with schizophrenia and provide the necessary support for people affected by raising awareness and understanding.