Schizophrenia

Hello, My Name Is Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness where a person experiences extreme psychosis, that includes delusions and hallucinations. It reduces one’s level of motivation, expressiveness and overall demeanor. Whilst it is debilitating, it is treatable.

Being in the life of someone with schizophrenia can…

bring a unique set of challenges due to the variety of symptoms, as well as their intensity. Understand that you, nor medication can cure them, but family and friends support coupled with medication will all lead to your loved one being able to live a fulfilled life. In a general sense, try to not be sarcastic with the person, or express frustration and anger towards them. No matter how draining episodes can feel, remember that your loved one is not at fault. Your loved one is in just as much pain and fear as you may feel, and they too are terrified of the loss of control they feel.

Okay, now, how do I interact with them?

1) Learn about the unique challenges that a schizophrenia diagnosis brings to all those affected. Do not deny the illness, but rather accept it, and understand it will be difficult for you and your loved one. 

2) Understand that it is possible for your loved one to experience a full, promising life despite their diagnosis. Their lives are just as meaningful and profound as those who don’t receive a diagnosis of Schizophrenia. 

3) Some people with schizophrenia may not want to get treatment out of a fear of appearing ‘crazy’. If this is the case, encourage them to get treatment in a less pervasive way, such as getting help for insomnia (which is often a symptom of schizophrenia). This can make a visit to the general practitioner or psychiatrist a little less threatening. Assure them that you will be by their side. 

4) Since schizophrenia tends to be episodic (i.e. happens in cycles or episodes) encourage the person to develop strategies that can help them reduce the severity of episodes. For example, help your loved one or friend develop strategies that will reduce overall stress and anxiety such as meditation, exercise or an activity they particularly enjoy!

Note that these aforementioned examples aren’t magical cures, but rather, things that improve the quality of life for all people.

Schizophrenia Misnames

Split personality Disorder. This is not the same as Schizophrenia.

Source: Sane, Help Guide; Researcher: Devmi Epaarachchi