Schizophrenia is a complex and often misunderstood mental health condition. It affects about 24 million people worldwide. This condition, which typically manifests in late adolescence to early adulthood, can be an overwhelming and frightening experience.
Dr Bianca Brider of Janssen South Africa Medical Affairs sheds light on the reality of living with schizophrenia and the importance of seeking treatment and support.
The frightening experience of schizophrenia
Brider explains that one of the most disempowering aspects of schizophrenia is the difficulty patients face in distinguishing between reality and hallucinations.
Imagine hearing or seeing things that aren’t there and being unable to discern what is real, she says. This blending of the real and imagined can be terrifying, especially for young adults still trying to figure out their lives.
The onset of schizophrenia often occurs earlier in men than women, adding another layer of complexity to an already challenging period of life.
“You’re still trying to figure out who you are and what you want to do with your life, and you have to deal with the daunting challenge of schizophrenia on top of all of that,” Brider continues.
Symptoms and challenges
The most recognisable symptom of schizophrenia is the merging of reality with the patient’s internal narratives. This can manifest as auditory and visual hallucinations, making it difficult for patients to navigate daily life. Other symptoms include low motivation, difficulty forming social connections, disorganized thinking, and inappropriate emotional responses. Patients may also experience extreme agitation or, conversely, a significant slowing of movements.
While at least one-third of people with schizophrenia experience complete remission of symptoms, others may endure a gradual worsening or an ebb and flow of symptoms throughout their lives.
Misconceptions and stigma
Popular media often perpetuates misconceptions about schizophrenia, leading to societal stigma. Brider emphasises that schizophrenia is distinct from dissociative identity disorder (DID), commonly known as “split personality”. In schizophrenia, the “split” is between reality and the false reality created by hallucinations, not between multiple personalities.
People living with schizophrenia are often portrayed as unpredictable and violent, but this is true for only a minority of patients.
“The fear of being stigmatised is an unfortunate social consequence of this disease,” says Brider. “It discourages people with schizophrenia from seeking help, and also leads to their social withdrawal. This could, in turn, compound their symptoms.”
Another common misconception is that schizophrenia is untreatable and that patients cannot lead normal lives. “While it’s true that schizophrenia is incurable, that doesn’t mean that it’s untreatable,” Brider stresses. Advances in medical interventions have enabled many patients to pursue careers, maintain family lives, and avoid long-term hospitalisation.
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Causes of schizophrenia
Research has yet to pinpoint a single cause of schizophrenia, but it is believed to result from an interaction between genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Childhood trauma, frequent cannabis use, and exposure to psychoactive drugs such as cocaine, LSD, or amphetamines can increase the risk of developing schizophrenia or trigger relapses in susceptible individuals.
Living with schizophrenia
Brider underscores the importance of seeking help and support. “Uncontrolled disease can, and will, ruin lives,” she says. “Whether it’s a disease of the body, such as cancer, or a disease of the mind, such as schizophrenia, being silent can have devastating consequences. There is both medical and emotional support out there. Reach out for help. Make your voice heard; it’s crucial for you and those that are still to walk in your footsteps.”
Treatment for schizophrenia typically involves a combination of medication and psychosocial interventions. Depending on medical advice, patients may use oral or injectable medications. Psychotherapy, family interventions, psychoeducation, cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychosocial rehabilitation, and self-help or support groups play vital roles in managing the condition.
A recovery-oriented approach that gives people agency in their treatment decisions is essential, Brider notes.
“Support groups are utterly crucial, in that they remind patients that they are not alone on this journey.”
Schizophrenia is a challenging condition that requires a comprehensive approach to treatment and support. By dispelling misconceptions and encouraging a supportive and understanding environment, we can help those living with schizophrenia lead fulfilling lives. If you or someone you know is struggling with schizophrenia, it is vital to seek help and take advantage of the resources available.
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