What Is Schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental health disorder that affects how a person interprets reality. It often causes disordered thinking, hallucinations, and unusual behaviour, which can significantly impact daily functioning.

Many people living with schizophrenia face stigma and misconceptions. Common myths, such as having a “split personality” or being violent – are false and harmful. In reality, schizophrenia is a complex brain condition that deserves understanding and compassion.

Main Risk Factors of Schizophrenia

The exact cause of schizophrenia is still unknown, but several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing the disorder, including:

• A family history of schizophrenia
• Pregnancy complications like malnutrition or viral exposure
• Drug use during teenage or early adult years, especially psychoactive substances
  

These factors may influence how the brain develops and functions, making some individuals more vulnerable to the condition.

Key Symptoms of Schizophrenia

Symptoms of schizophrenia typically fall into three main categories: positive, negative, and cognitive symptoms.

1. Positive Symptoms

These add abnormal experiences to normal functioning, such as:

• Hallucinations: Hearing or seeing things that aren’t real, often including voices that comment or command.
• Delusions: Strongly held false beliefs, like thinking others are watching or plotting against them.
  

2. Negative Symptoms

These reflect a loss of normal behaviour or motivation, including:

• Withdrawal from daily activities or social interactions
• Lack of emotion, poor eye contact, or monotone speech
• Neglect of personal hygiene
  

3. Cognitive Symptoms

These involve difficulties with attention, memory, and logical thinking. People may speak incoherently (“word salad”), struggle to focus, or display unusual movements or postures. In severe cases, catatonia – a lack of movement or speech – may occur.

Complications of Untreated Schizophrenia

Without proper treatment, schizophrenia can lead to serious complications such as:

• Suicidal thoughts or attempts
• Depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive sympton
• Drug or alcohol misuse
• Difficulty working or studying
• Financial hardship, homelessness, and social isolation

Early and continuous treatment is key to managing these risks effectively.

How Schizophrenia Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis involves evaluating:

• Current and past symptoms
• Family and medical history
• Substance use patterns
• Physical exams and possibly brain scans
  

A diagnosis usually requires symptoms to persist for six months or more and cause significant impairment in work, school, or relationships.

For individuals with shorter or milder psychotic episodes, a diagnosis of psychosis may be given initially, which can later progress to schizophrenia if symptoms continue.

Schizophrenia in Teenagers

Recognising schizophrenia in teens can be challenging since early signs can resemble normal adolescent changes. Warning signs include:

• Decline in school performance
• Social withdrawal
• Mood changes such as irritability or depression
• Altered sleep patterns
• Loss of motivation
  

Drug use (e.g. marijuana or LSD) may trigger similar symptoms, making professional assessment vital.

Treatment Options for Schizophrenia

While there is no cure, treatment for schizophrenia can help individuals lead fulfilling lives. Early intervention improves long-term outcomes.

Common treatments include:

• Medication: Antipsychotics and antidepressants to manage symptoms
• Therapies: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), supportive psychotherapy, and family therapy
• Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): Used in severe or treatment-resistant cases

Side effects from medication – such as weight gain or fatigue – can discourage adherence. Open communication with healthcare professionals ensures safe and effective treatment.

Getting Help

If you or someone you know shows symptoms of schizophrenia, contact your GP for assessment and referral to a psychiatrist or mental health service.

If there is immediate risk of self-harm, call 000 or stay with the person until help arrives.
In Queensland, the Gold Coast Acute Care Team (ACT) can provide urgent support at 1300 642 255.

Conclusion

Schizophrenia is a serious but treatable mental health condition. With the right combination of medication, therapy, and support, many people can manage symptoms and live meaningful lives. Early diagnosis, understanding, and compassionate care remain the most powerful tools in recovery.