SCHIZOPHRENIA

What is schizophrenia?
· Schizophrenia is a complex mental health problem, which can manifest itself in a number of ways. Commons experiences of schizophrenia may include hallucinations (usually auditory but can affect four senses - auditory, visual, olfactory and taste), delusions (a false but unshakeable belief which is not shared by others from the same cultural group but is real to the individual), disturbances of thought and communication, or withdrawal. Not everyone diagnosed with schizophrenia will experience all of these symptoms.

· Schizophrenia affects different people in different ways. Some people become ill quite suddenly, for others, the change is gradual and person may show signs of withdrawal or self-neglect.

· Generally, getting appropriate care and treatment for schizophrenia as soon as possible after symptoms appear results in a greater chance of a good recovery. Reducing stigma associated with the symptoms of schizophrenia has been shown to increase the numbers of people seeking help earlier.

· Some people find that medication helps but acceptance and support from the community at large, as well as good community care services, are vital in promoting the wellbeing of people with schizophrenia.

· At times, some people with schizophrenia may require hospital care however, most live in their own homes in the community.

Who is commonly affected by schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia can affect people of either gender, of any age and from any background. People usually become unwell for the first time in early adulthood. The first contact with mental health services is most commonly between the ages of 25 and 35, but can be at a much younger age.


Myths about schizophrenia

· Schizophrenia is not a split personality, nor does the behaviour of people with this diagnosis swing dramatically between ‘normal’ and dangerous. People with schizophrenia are rarely dangerous, but are experiencing things that can be extremely unpleasant and frightening for them.

· People with schizophrenia can and do lead productive lives. Though living with schizophrenia can be a devastating and disabling experience, many people are for example, able to take higher degrees, take on complex employment challenges, and raise a family.

The statistics

· Schizophrenia is both serious and relatively common. The lifetime risk of developing schizophrenia is about 1 in 100 across all nations and all cultures. In Scotland, for every 100,000 people, 20 new diagnoses of schizophrenia can be expected each year, almost always in young people in their teens and early twenties. This equates to about 1,000 young Scots every year.

· The outlook for people with schizophrenia varies. One in four people will recover within five years of their first episode of schizophrenia. Two out of three will get better but will still have some symptoms and will have times when their symptoms get worse. Around one in five will continue to experience symptoms that will continue to interfere with their lives.

· About 10% of people with schizophrenia end their lives by suicide.

Where can I go for more information about it?
For further information on schizophrenia, visit www.nsfscotland.org.uk or see the links section of the ‘see me’ website (www.seemescotland.org)