Breaking the Stigma Myths and Facts About Schizophrenia
It’s estimated that 4.9% of people with schizophrenia die by suicide due to the stigma that surrounds the disorder. Learn some common myths and facts about schizophrenia, so you can better support those with the condition.
Schizophrenia is a serious and often misunderstood brain disorder that affects people in different ways. And, unfortunately, about 4.9% of people with the disorder die by suicide due to the stigma that surrounds the condition. Furthermore, family and friends of those with the condition can also suffer stress because of it.
At InSynch Health, our experienced mental health specialists take a compassionate, patient-centered approach to managing schizophrenia and its symptoms. Our providers also value the importance of educating family and friends to break the stigma about the disorder, so more people can be a supportive resource for those with schizophrenia.
What to know about schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a brain disorder that affects how you view the world around you. This change in perception can interfere with your ability to meet day-to-day responsibilities and care for yourself properly.
Symptoms of schizophrenia can include:
Psychotic symptoms
Psychotic symptoms include hallucinations, delusions, and illogical thinking patterns. You might also experience unusual movements in the body because of the disorder.
Negative symptoms
Negative symptoms include difficulties expressing emotions or experiencing pleasure, loss of interest in activities, and a lack of motivation.
Cognitive symptoms
Cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia include memory issues, difficulties paying attention, and problems processing information.
The underlying cause of schizophrenia isn’t understood well, but there are known genetic and environmental factors that may play a role. In some cases, unmanaged life stressors can contribute to the brain disorder.
Myths and facts about schizophrenia
Here are four common myths and facts about schizophrenia:
MYTH: Having schizophrenia means no quality of life
FACT: Schizophrenia is a condition that can be effectively managed under the guidance of skilled medical professionals, such as those at InSynch Health.
With the right therapies and medications, those living with schizophrenia can maintain a job, social connections, and other aspects of a high-quality life.
MYTH: Individuals with schizophrenia are always violent
FACT: While some people with psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia, can become aggressive, this isn’t always the case. The reality is that those with schizophrenia are oftentimes the victims of violent encounters, because they’re intentionally targeted by others due to their condition.
MYTH: People with schizophrenia develop it suddenly
FACT: Schizophrenia symptoms tend to develop gradually over time. In the early stages of the disorder, you may notice symptoms, such as increased isolation and a loss of interest in activities.
Any issues that persist for two weeks or longer require a comprehensive medical evaluation to confirm or rule out schizophrenia, depression, or other mental health disorders.
MYTH: Schizophrenia always requires in-patient care
FACT: It’s true that some individuals will need in-patient care when they aren’t able to manage schizophrenia symptoms with outpatient strategies. However, many people are able to live a full life with a combination of therapy and medications.
Those with a strong family support system may be able to avoid long-term hospital stays and other in-patient treatments.
If you or someone you love needs help managing schizophrenia symptoms, call 409-248-2979 or book an appointment online with InSynch Health today.
InSynch Health
✆ Phone (appointments): 281-721-4181
Email: frontdesk@insynchhealth.com
Fax: 949-757-6621
Address: 87 I-10 Service Road, Suite 125, Beaumont, TX 77707