What happens when you or someone you love no longer lives in reality? From imagining enemies around every corner to experiencing confused thoughts that make normal life impossible, schizophrenia is a psychotic disorder that makes it hard to tell what’s real-and what’s not. Schizophrenia is a very complex illness that almost always requires ongoing mental health treatment. It’s no surprise that schizophrenia is one of the most misunderstood psychiatric disorders. This has led to many myths and misconceptions. To learn more about schizotypal personality disorder, call us today at 844.875.5609.
Myths About Schizophrenia
The following are some of the most common schizophrenia myths and misconceptions:
People with schizophrenia are violent.
The vast majority of people with schizophrenia are neither aggressive nor violent. In fact, most prefer limited social interaction. While there are occasional exceptions involving those experiencing grandiose or persecutory delusions, it is much more common for individuals with this disorder to harm themselves.
Schizophrenia is caused by genetics.
While DNA does appear to play a role in most cases, it’s not the only risk factor for development. Schizophrenia, like other psychiatric disorders, is believed to develop due to a combination of factors. Factors include genes, trauma, substance abuse among others.
It’s an untreatable condition.
Schizophrenia is typically considered a lifelong psychiatric disorder. However, with the right treatment, many individuals with schizophrenia can lead fulfilling lives, including having families and careers. Medications can help reduce hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking. Other treatment options may include psychotherapy, life skills training, family therapy, and vocational training. By collaborating with a mental health professional, those living with schizophrenia can develop problem-solving skills for daily life. Early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve outcomes, but it’s never too late to seek help.
Individuals with schizophrenia can’t hold jobs or go to school.
Antipsychotic medications make it possible for many people with schizophrenia to function quite well. People who regularly take antipsychotic medication and work with a mental health professional have the best chance of keeping their symptoms manageable. If psychotic episodes have already interfered with the ability to live a normal life, social skills training and job counseling can be particularly beneficial.
Antipsychotic medications are worse than the illness itself.
Antipsychotic drugs have helped countless individuals with schizophrenia successfully manage their symptoms. Granted, these powerful medications do have many potential side effects, so ultimately the benefits and costs must be weighed. Also, there is often some trial and error involved before finding the most effective and tolerable medication and dose, as not every medication will work for every patient. That makes it critical to work closely with a psychiatrist who can monitor the medication’s effectiveness and side effects, and make adjustments or changes when necessary.
Electroshock therapy is barbaric and dangerous.
Typically referred to as ECT or electroconvulsive therapy, this treatment can be a life-saving option when traditional therapies are not working. In fact, somewhere in the ballpark of 100,000 Americans receive ECT for various conditions each year. During treatment, the patient receives a controlled electrical shock that causes a seizure, essentially resetting the brain. The use of anesthesia and better control of the currents have made ECT a much safer treatment in recent years. However, serious side effects, such as memory loss, may occur, so a decision to undergo ECT should be carefully considered.
Individuals with schizophrenia must be institutionalized.
Going by what we see on TV and in movies, it would seem that a diagnosis of schizophrenia diagnosis always leads to a commitment to a mental hospital. Fortunately, that’s not always the case. While hospitalization is typically required for an acute psychotic episode, only a small percentage of individuals with schizophrenia require long-term inpatient care. Some with the diagnosis are rarely, if ever, hospitalized. Many hospitalizations occur when individuals stop taking their medication and become symptomatic as a result.
There’s no support for individuals with schizophrenia, or for their families.
Like many other serious mental illnesses, there’s a stigma attached to those living with schizophrenia. But that doesn’t mean someone living with the disorder is consigned to a life of loneliness and isolation. Whether you live with the illness or you have a loved one who does, you can find a support group or outreach program. Many of these programs offer resources for everything from pinpointing ways to avoid symptom relapse to helping a non-compliant schizophrenic.
I can’t help a family member with schizophrenia.
Schizophrenia is a challenging disorder. Paranoia and lack of insight can hinder a loved one’s ability to recognize their need for treatment. If you believe a family member poses a danger to themselves or others, consult with an attorney or mental health professional about involuntary commitment laws in your state. For a loved one already in treatment, be respectful, supportive, and patient during their journey—it’s likely the toughest one they’ll face. Don’t neglect your own needs; seek a self-help group with a supportive network of others in similar situations. They can provide resources and invaluable insights from their experiences.
Get the Help You Need Today From Promises Behavorial Health
It’s almost impossible to fully understand schizophrenia. At Promises, we try and make getting treatment as easy as possible. You don’t need a medical degree to get what a loved one is struggling with. Call 844.875.5609 today or use our online contact form to talk to a professional about schizophrenia myths and misconceptions.