How to tell if someone may have schizophrenia.

One of the main symptoms of schizophrenia is psychosis. A person experiencing psychosis finds it hard to tell what is real from what is not. Psychosis is often experienced for short periods with intense symptoms; this is known as an episode.

 

Symptoms of Schizophrenia

Symptoms can begin in childhood, so be mindful of changes that could be reflective of the illness developing. Late teens through to people in their 30s can be affected. These symptoms can even become present at a later stage in life, especially for women.

There are two types of symptoms associated with Schizophrenia:

 

Common Positive Symptoms

  • Delusions — false beliefs that cannot be changed by evidence
  • Hallucinations — hearing voices or otherwise sensing things that are not real
  • Disordered thinking — muddled, disrupted thoughts and speech
  • Disordered behaviour — unusual, inappropriate or extreme actions

 

Common Negative Systems

  • Poor self-hygiene
  • Sleeping more than usual
  • Demotivated and lethargic

 

All of these symptoms do not need to be present to be diagnosed and many people do not experience every symptom.

It is important to understand that negative does not mean bad and positive does not mean good.

 

Typical Myths about Schizophrenia

 Schizophrenia does not mean you have a spilt or multiple personality and does not mean that you are violent.  People with Schizophrenia are no more violent than anyone else, however some may be violent or aggressive if the symptoms are not treated.

You cannot will Schizophrenia away with exercise, being in a relationship, diet, or prayer.

 

Causes

The causes are complex and the exact cause is not known. Some risk factors include genetics, early development, substance abuse, stressful social circumstances and trauma (particularly in childhood), can all increase the chances of experiencing schizophrenia.


Impact on daily life

The impact on daily life is significant with all aspects of a person’s life affected; psychologically, socially, environmentally, spiritually and physically.  Decision making, thinking, problem solving, relationships and employment are all impacted by Schizophrenia.

Schizophrenia is a lifelong diagnosis, but with help and support one can still experience a life that is fulfilling.

 

How to cope if a loved one has Schizophrenia?

Seek support for yourself, talk about the symptoms and research them.  Understanding of the diagnosis, its symptoms, impact and treatment will help you to cope better with this change. This is a difficult diagnosis for any carer/partner or family member to accept and cope with and can lead to feelings of guilt, self-blame and at times rejection of the person suffering from the illness. It is essential to share these feelings and bring them into the open. 

Include your loved one in discussions, find out from them what it’s like to live with the diagnosis, what they need to cope and how you can help.

Join a support group where you can share your experiences.  It is important to keep talking - communication is essential.


How to live with Schizophrenia

There are many forms of help and support for those with Schizophrenia.

Medication is essential in helping control and stabilise the symptoms and prevent a relapse, which can then increase the risk of further relapses.

Psychological therapies such Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can help someone with Schizophrenia to determine what is real and what is not and help them adjust their behaviour.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is useful to help them become grounded and mindful of the symptoms and their impact.

Relaxation, Mindfulness, listening to music or reading, using distraction techniques can also be helpful in managing the symptoms.

 

What can help and where to get help.

Many families express their frustration with getting the right help. They often find themselves going around in circles trying to navigate new and unfamiliar services, whist trying to cope with the changes within their loved one.

Diagnosis can take some time and a holistic approach is important. Medication alone is great, but the need for Psychological and Psychosocial support is also very important.

Seeking help early is the key, as soon as you suspect something could be wrong or different, visit a General Practitioner to request a referral to a psychiatrist.

If your GP is not Mental Health aware and feels your loved one is fine, remember you know that person the best, and continue to seek answers.  Calling your local Triage attached to your Area Health Authority can provide some support and a method of moving forward to seek an assessment and treatment.

It is important to try not to randomly Google information as you may be directed to a page that is not helpful. Mentis Assist recommends the following organisations that have valuable and factual information about Schizophrenia.

 

 

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