What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness teaches us to observe the present moment with openness and curiosity
Read moreMyths about schizophrenia
There are many misunderstandings about schizophrenia – what it is and how it affects people. SuicideLine Victoria is working to reduce the stigma of schizophrenia by looking at the most common myths and comparing them to the facts.
Schizophrenia is a complex mental health condition affects thoughts, behaviour, speech, and perception. Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions surrounding the condition. Here we aim to clear up some of the most common misconceptions about schizophrenia by exploring the facts behind the myths.
Myth
Having schizophrenia means you have split or multiple personalities.
Fact
No. People with schizophrenia do not have more than one personality. Schizophrenia is a chronic mental illness that affects a person’s thoughts, behaviour, speech, and perception. People with schizophrenia may have trouble distinguishing between what is real and what is not.
Myth
Schizophrenia is very rare.
Fact
No. Around one in a hundred people will develop schizophrenia., with it typically affecting people in their late teens to mid-twenties.
Myth
People with schizophrenia only suffer symptoms that involve delusions and hallucinations.
Fact
No. People with schizophrenia can experience two or more of the following symptoms:
- Delusions– false, fixed beliefs.
- Hallucinations– experiencing things that no one else is hearing, seeing, tasting, touching, or smelling.
- Disorganised thinking– not connecting thoughts logically, speech is difficult to follow.
- Abnormal movement– includes catatonia.
- Negative symptoms– reduced facial expressions, low motivation, inability to enjoy once-liked activities, and social withdrawal.
Myth
People who have schizophrenia are violent.
Fact
No. Violence is not a symptom of schizophrenia. Unfortunately, popular culture has often depicted people with schizophrenia to be violent.
Myth
You cannot treat schizophrenia.
Fact
No. There are treatments for schizophrenia. These include medication, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based treatments, physical activity, and education to identify the warning signs. Many people living with schizophrenia live productive and successful lives.
If you are worried about yourself or someone you know, a GP can help with an initial assessment and then refer you to a specialist. The earlier schizophrenia is diagnosed, the better the outcome.
If you are struggling and want to speak to a professional counsellor, SuicideLine Victoria is available 24/7. Call us on 1300 651 251.
If it is an emergency, dial 000.
Further reading
How to reduce stress with progressive muscle relaxation
A simple but effective technique to reduce stress and increase relaxation.
Read moreLoneliness - ways to improve your social relationships
Researchers have been investigating the impact of loneliness and how connecting with people can positively improve our mental health, wellbeing, and physical health. For some of us, this may be easy, but for others, social relationships and situations can leave us feeling a little awkward. Here’s some advice on how to improve your social relationships.
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Many of us set new goals to change and struggle to make headway in accomplishing them. We will explore why change is hard and provide tips to help you make that change.
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