Schizophrenia

What You Might Not Understand About Schizophrenia

By January 10, 2014January 13th, 2014No Comments

17642228_sWatching someone you love be diagnosed with schizophrenia can be difficult. They may simply not feel like himself, or worse, may not think that anything has changed even though friends and family can clearly spot a transformation. Understanding the nature of the illness, including its signs and symptoms, is the first step toward helping someone who might be affected.

According to the DSM-5, schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder characterized by erratic behavior, lack of emotion, and disjointed thoughts and communication. In some cases, the disease can include delusions and hallucinations. Delusions are misconceptions which someone believes are true, and hallucinations are surreal experiences that include seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting or touching something that isn’t really there.

Some individuals with schizophrenia may also experience paranoia, feeling like people are out to get them or believing that their romantic partner is cheating on them even if it’s not true. They may also think that someone is controlling their mind and thoughts. Additionally, delusions of grandeur are not uncommon.

One person in this Psych Central article described the experience of watching his friend develop schizophrenia. The friend’s behavior became bizarre, with him abruptly disappearing for days. The friend also started hearing voices and became more catatonic.

Interestingly enough, schizophrenia doesn’t usually manifest itself until a person’s 20s, with symptoms appearing earlier for men than women. This can make acceptance of the disorder even more difficult as onset can come suddenly with little warning, just as a person is starting to come into their own.

While it can be difficult to watch a loved one or friend cope with the changes brought on by schizophrenia, the best thing to do is offer support and gently encourage them to seek professional help. Living with a mental illness like schizophrenia may present unique challenges, but it doesn’t have to dictate the course of a person’s life. With diagnosis and ongoing steps toward symptom management, many with the illness can live productive, meaningful lives. Many living with schizophrenia have careers and families, and continue to reach their goals while managing their symptoms through several strategies.

There is help. Family Guidance Center has been a community resource for adult mental health for decades. If you would like to learn more about schizophrenia or other mental health disorders, contact Family Guidance Center.