World Schizophrenia Day

Written By Kelly McGrath

May 24 is World Schizophrenia Awareness Day. This day raises awareness of the impact of schizophrenia and reduces stigma around the condition. By providing education about what schizophrenia is, we have the opportunity to advocate and support people with this condition, and advocate for early intervention and better treatment. 

What is schizophrenia? 

Approximately 650,000 Australians and 2.6 million people globally are affected by schizophrenia. 

Schizophrenia is a neurodevelopmental disorder which impacts a person’s thoughts, behaviours, and perceptions. If you or a loved one is diagnosed with schizophrenia it is still possible to live a life of quality and meaning. Schizophrenia is more common in males than females, and symptoms usually appear in the late teens to early 20s. Schizophrenia can impact all areas of one’s daily life, so it is important to seek help and support.  

Causes 

The causes of schizophrenia are not fully understood. There are many complex genetic and environmental factors which can contribute to it. Brain development and chemistry, family history, birth complications (infection or malnutrition), or using certain drugs, especially as a teenager or young adult, can increase the risk. There is no confirmed way of preventing schizophrenia. However, having a treatment plan following diagnosis can avoid relapses and symptoms worsening. 

Symptoms 

Schizophrenia affects the brain, influencing a person’s thinking, behaviour and emotions. Each person is different so symptoms may vary. Symptom severity can also change over time. There may be continuous symptoms or relapsing periods with relatively normal periods in between. If symptoms are left untreated, this may lead to psychosis. 

Symptoms commonly experienced include disorganised speech, delusions, and hallucinations. Delusions, hallucinations, and psychosis can be quite frightening, for the person experiencing them, and for the people around them. 

  • Disorganised thinking and speech: Maintaining a smooth thought process may be a challenge, and speech can be jumbled. A person may also have difficulty understanding what is being said to them. 

  • Disorganised and abnormal motor behaviour: This can present in unpredictable agitation, a complete lack of response, inappropriate posture, or immature silliness.  

  • Negative symptoms: This is where people are unable to perform daily activities normally, neglecting hygiene, lacking emotion (not making eye contact or changing facial expressions), low motivation, withdrawing socially or losing interest in everyday activities.  

  • Delusions: These occur in most people with schizophrenia. Delusions are untrue beliefs with no foundation in reality. For example, thinking and believing that they are under threat of being harmed, or grandiose ideas about own exceptional ability.   

  • Hallucinations: This can include hearing voices or seeing, smelling, tasting, or feeling things that do not exist. 

  • Psychosis: This is where a person’s thoughts and perceptions are disrupted, and they find it difficult to understand what is real and what is not. 

People with schizophrenia may also experience sleep disturbances, changes in mood, behave inappropriately, and they may struggle to maintain work, study, relationships, and personal hygiene. 

People with schizophrenia often have other mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, OCD or substance use disorders. They are also more likely to have poor physical health and are at higher risk of suicide than the general population. People with schizophrenia can lack the awareness of their symptoms as part of their condition, so having support is vital to ensure they receive the right help. If you are concerned someone you care about may have schizophrenia, talk to them about your concerns and offer help to find a doctor or mental health professional. 

Treatment 

Schizophrenia needs treatment with medication and psychosocial therapy. Treatment may be required throughout a person’s life. A treatment team can offer holistic care and support for different areas of a person life. Depending on the severity of symptoms, some people need support to complete daily activities such as self-care, shopping, or food preparation.  

Medications are needed to manage symptoms so people can maintain daily activities. There are different options, so it is important to talk to a qualified professional to find the right one for you. It may take a few tries to find the right medication for your symptoms, and often takes a few weeks to see or feel the changes the medication makes.  

Support 

Living well with schizophrenia can be achieved. With the right treatment and support many people with schizophrenia will see significant improvements in their symptoms. 

Simple steps can help prevent episodes of psychosis. Forming strategies with family and friends can also be beneficial to someone’s care and support. It is important to find what works well for you. 

Some include:  

  • Minimise stress in your life. 

  • Look after yourself and do things you enjoy. 

  • Make sure you eat healthy food, exercise, and get enough sleep.  

  • Access peer support and remain socially engaged. 

  • Regularly see your GP about your physical health. If you have any concerns about your medication or treatment, make sure to check in with your GP or psychiatrist. Never stop or change medications without their advice. 

 

Resources 

  • National Support Line – 1800 187 263 

  • National Support Line – 13 11 14 

  • National Support Line – 1300 224 636 

Kelly McGrath
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