Schizophernia

Schizophrenia is a mental health disorder that affects how a person perceives and interacts with the world around them. At the onset of an episode, individuals may start to feel that their surroundings seem unusual or distorted. They might struggle with concentration, thinking, or communication, and have difficulty engaging in their usual activities. During the peak of an episode, some people experience a break from reality, known as psychosis. This may include hallucinations (e.g., hearing voices that aren’t there) and delusions (e.g., holding strong beliefs that aren’t true, such as believing they have special powers). Some individuals may feel emotionally flat or disconnected, and may experience changes in mood, motivation, or their ability to complete everyday tasks. After an episode, the effects can persist, with people feeling restless, withdrawn, or having trouble focusing.

The course of schizophrenia varies widely from person to person. Some may experience only one episode in their lifetime, while others may have multiple episodes. For some, there are periods of wellness between episodes, while others may endure long-lasting episodes. Regardless of the pattern, research shows that early treatment can help reduce the impact of future episodes.

Who is affected by it?
Schizophrenia can affect anyone. It typically begins in the teenage years, although females often experience it a little later than males. The exact cause of schizophrenia remains unclear, and the way it affects individuals can vary greatly.

What can I do about it?
While there is no cure for schizophrenia, recovery is possible. Recovery may involve learning how to manage symptoms, work around challenges, or maintain overall wellness. Most people find that a combination of treatments and support systems is helpful.

During a severe episode of psychosis, some individuals may need to be hospitalized. This time provides an opportunity to determine the best treatment approach and begin the path toward recovery. Before leaving the hospital, care providers should assist in arranging follow-up care with doctors, counselors, and social workers who will help support recovery.

How can I help a loved one?
It’s common for loved ones to worry about the future, but the good news is that schizophrenia is treatable—and love and support play a significant role in recovery. Here are some ways you can help:

Educate yourself about schizophrenia to better understand what to expect and how to assist.
Schizophrenia can affect concentration and the ability to process information. Your loved one may struggle with tasks that seem simple to you, or may not react in expected ways. It's natural to feel frustrated, but it's important to remember that no one is at fault.
If your loved one has difficulty following conversations, choose a quiet space and speak in a calm and clear manner.
Avoid arguing with delusions or hallucinations. Instead, try to focus on the emotions they might be experiencing due to these symptoms.
Ask your loved one how you can support them, even if it’s something as simple as helping with daily tasks.
Discuss how to handle emergencies when your loved one is well. Create a crisis plan, document it, and share it with your care team. This is also a good time to set boundaries regarding behaviors you are not willing to accept.
Set healthy boundaries for yourself and seek support when needed.