Know the Myths and Facts About Schizophrenia

03/22/2021

According to some estimates, around 1% of the US population is affected by Schizophrenia, where both genders are equally affected. 

Let’s first clear the most common myth - many people think that Schizophrenia causes split personality. These are two different medical conditions, the latter being termed as a dissociative personality disorder.

Schizophrenia symptoms that one might experience are as follows:

• Difficulty in remembering things

• Delusions or false beliefs

• Trouble focusing

• Lack of emotions

• Hallucinations or hearing voices

• Disordered thoughts

• Unable to process information and make decisions

Many people who have Schizophrenia don’t realize they have it, which makes diagnosis and treatment more difficult. Now, let’s dig into some truth and reality about Schizophrenia.

#Myth 1: People with Schizophrenia are dangerous and violent

We often see in movies that the crazy killer has Schizophrenia making this a common perception. In reality, that’s not the case. People with Schizophrenia may be unpredictable but mostly aren’t violent. The disorder has nothing to do with physically aggressive actions. They’re more likely to cause damage to themselves as suicide rates are high in Schizophrenia patients.

#Myth 2: If a parent has Schizophrenia, the child will also get it

Genes play a role, but that doesn’t imply that you’ll develop this medical illness just because one of your parents has it. The risk will be slightly high, like 10%, due to the genes. 

#Myth 3: People having Schizophrenia are not smart/intelligent

Many studies have found that people who have Schizophrenia have trouble in skill tests such as memory, attention, and learning; that doesn’t mean that they aren’t smart or intelligent. A lot of creative minds throughout history have had Schizophrenia. Many researchers are studying the links between genes related to creativity.

#Myth 4: Schizophrenia means the patient belongs to a mental hospital

People have this preconceived notion from the past that people with mental illness are sent to mental prisons or asylums. However, it is not the same anymore as patients can easily buy over the counter medicine for Schizophrenia to control the symptoms. Moreover, experts have now developed treatments and medications. So, fewer people are only placed for a long time in mental hospitals.

With the right medicines and therapy, patients can recover 100% from this medical condition. Many people live a productive and high-quality life by making lifestyle changes as well. If you or someone you know is going through this condition, consult a doctor for treatment and medications. Stay safe! Stay happy! Stay healthy!

Also Read: Know All About Schizophrenia