Schizophrenia is one of the most often misunderstood mental health problems and myths associated with it further increase the process of stigma and discrimination of the people suffering from it. The resulting barriers stop people with this condition from receiving the understanding and help they need. It is important to promote awareness and empathy when it comes to schizophrenia and to separate fact from fiction.

Myth 1: Schizophrenic means more than one personality

One of the most common myths regarding schizophrenia is that people with it have ‘split’ personalities. But this likely arises from this misconception between schizophrenia and dissociative identity disorder (DID), which was earlier known as multiple personality disorder. In reality, a person does not switch between multiple distinct identities with schizophrenia.

Schizophrenia is a severe mental health condition that causes symptoms such as hallucinations (hearing or seeing things that aren’t there), and delusions (false beliefs), along with disorganized thinking and in some people, the ability to no longer show emotion. However, these symptoms don’t mean multiple personalities; they can affect how a person perceives and engages with the world.

Myth 2: People with Schizophrenia Are Violent and Dangerous

One of the most dangerous myths is that people with schizophrenia are violent or in some ways threatening. This is also a misconception that is not only false but also disparaging and contributes to the prejudice against people with this condition. People with schizophrenia are much more vulnerable to violence than causing it to others. Various works suggest that those with schizophrenia are more likely to be abused, especially where they lack proper care and treatment.

Many people with schizophrenia are peaceful and all they desire is to live normal lives without being discriminated against or misunderstood. This myth sustains fear and disbelief which keeps people with schizophrenia out of the community and away from the health care providers. Getting rid of this stereotype will help people to be more tolerant and accepting of individuals with mental disorders.

Schizophrenia Treatment at Deland Treatment Solutions

For anyone who has schizophrenia or knows someone who does it is important to know the facts about this mental disorder. At DeLand Treatment Solutions, we have a dedicated Schizophrenia Treatment Program that incorporates the best form of treatment to help the patient recover and care for them after treatment. We are here to help you on your journey to better mental health in a supportive environment. Contact us today to know how we can help you.

Myth 3: Schizophrenia is a Rare Condition

Another myth is that schizophrenia is a very rare or unusual condition that only a few people have. However, the reality is that schizophrenia occurs in 1 in 100 people worldwide, much more so than most realize. Although it does not affect as much of the population as some other mental health conditions, the effects of schizophrenia are far-reaching worldwide.

Increased awareness about schizophrenia allows many people to understand the condition and find help without feeling isolated. Once we realize that it is something that a lot of people deal with, it helps society to be more inclusive and create a more supportive environment.

Myth 4: Schizophrenia Isn’t Treatable or Manageable

It is incorrect to think that schizophrenia is untreatable or hopeless. Although schizophrenia is indeed a chronic mental health condition it’s manageable with the right treatment and support. Effective treatment options have been developed so that people with this condition can lead a fulfilling life.

Usually, the treatment includes a mixture of medication and psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and family therapy. Additionally, case management, vocational training, and social skills development services are important for the person with schizophrenia to achieve self-sufficiency and reach personal goals. Follow-up, and modification of the treatment plan, also improve long-term outcomes. Many people with schizophrenia can learn to live symptom-free and make a life in the community with access to effective treatment.

Myth 5: Schizophrenia Symptoms are the same for everyone

A common misconception is that everyone who has schizophrenia has the same symptoms and that everybody experiences symptoms to the same degree or in the same way. Schizophrenia is a spectrum disorder, and in reality, the symptoms and severity can vary widely between individuals. For some people, it may be predominantly symptoms of hallucinations and delusions while for others these cognitive symptoms, the inability to concentrate or perform basic tasks every day can be more problematic. In some cases, symptoms such as lack of motivation, and lack of emotional expression can be more pronounced.

Schizophrenia is different in each person, which means there is no single treatment plan that fits every person with schizophrenia. Understanding the diversity of schizophrenia allows society to appreciate that those who have schizophrenia are not defined by that condition. It opens the door to more personalized care, and a greater sense of compassion, for people who have to deal with this.

Schizophrenia continues to be the most misunderstood mental health condition, but awareness and education will go a long way in helping us differentiate fact from fiction. Unraveling schizophrenia myths and understanding the reality of the condition makes us more compassionate and supportive of people suffering from the condition.

If you or someone you know is diagnosed with schizophrenia, remember there is hope. Contact DeLand Treatment Solutions to get more information about our Schizophrenia Treatment Program and how we help people reclaim their lives.