Schizophrenia is still accompanied by stigma and a lack of public understanding.12 The stigma surrounding schizophrenia results from several widely held misconceptions. But let’s dispel some of these mistaken beliefs:
‘People with schizophrenia have a split personality’
People with schizophrenia do not have a split personality.15 The confusion may partly result from the word ‘schizophrenia’3 which comes from two Greek words meaning ‘split’ and ‘mind’.16 Read about the common symptoms of schizophrenia.
‘People with schizophrenia can’t be helped’
THIS SIMPLY ISN’T TRUE.15 Comprehensive and ongoing treatment, as well as support from family, can help people with schizophrenia feel better.1217
‘Schizophrenia is just hallucinations and delusions’
There are three main groups of symptoms that make up schizophrenia: positive, negative and cognitive.2 While positive symptoms include hallucinations and delusions,123 people with schizophrenia can also have negative symptoms that make it hard to express their emotions56 and to function normally.213 They may also have cognitive symptoms which relate to their ability to think7 and can include poor memory,714 lack of attention714 and poor concentration.14
‘Schizophrenia is a rare condition’
Schizophrenia is not rare. Around one in a hundred people will develop schizophrenia at some time in their life.1
‘Dysfunctional families can cause schizophrenia’
No relationship has been found between family dynamics and schizophrenia.5 However, the stress of a challenging life event, such as bereavement, divorce or the ending of a relationship, can be a trigger for schizophrenia.3 But the relatives of those with schizophrenia are often instrumental in their successful care.12
‘Negative symptoms of schizophrenia don’t need treatment’
The possible negative symptoms of schizophrenia include lack of motivation,136 and lack of emotional expression.56 These negative symptoms can be just as debilitating as the positive symptoms.18 However, there is no established treatment for them. Clinical research currently underway aims to see if medication can help.1920
‘People with schizophrenia are lazy and not willing to help themselves’
Although people with schizophrenia “may seem lazy or unwilling to help themselves”,7 the problems arise from the negative symptoms of schizophrenia7 that can present as lack of motivation136 and enthusiasm,15 as well as a loss of interest in personal appearance21 and hygiene.7
