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People usually misunderstand Schizophrenia as a rare and dangerous mental disorder. However, it is not the case.

A challenging disorder, Schizophrenia, often makes it difficult to distinguish between real and unreal, think clearly, relate to others and manage emotions. Suspecting that someone you love or yourself has schizophrenia can be stressful. However, that does not mean that there is no hope.

To start with you should be aware of the early symptoms of Schizophrenia. In teenagers, the symptoms of Schizophrenia are similar to those in adults but to recognize whether these are signs of Schizophrenia can be difficult, as many of these symptoms of Schizophrenia are common for typical development in teen years. Few of them are:

  • Withdrawal from family and friends
  • A sudden drop in school performance
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Depressed mood and irritability
  • Lack of motivation
  • Weird or strange behaviour

Teens are less likely to have delusions and more likely to have hallucinations, as compared to adults.

Here are a few common myths about Schizophrenia:

Myth: Schizophrenia is a “split personality” or multiple personalities disorder.

Fact: Multiple personality disorder is much less common than schizophrenia. People with schizophrenia are “split off” from reality, they do not have split personalities.

Myth: Schizophrenia is an uncommon condition.

Fact: Schizophrenia is not uncommon. The lifetime risk of developing schizophrenia is widely accepted to be around 1 in 100.

Myth: People having schizophrenia are dangerous.

Fact: Although the delusional thoughts and hallucinations of schizophrenia sometimes lead to violent behaviour, most people with schizophrenia are neither violent nor a danger to others.

Myth: People with schizophrenia can’t be helped.

Fact: While long-term treatment may be required, the outlook for schizophrenia is far from hopeless. When treated properly, many people with schizophrenia are able to enjoy fulfilling, productive lives.

Treatment of Schizophrenia

Most effective treatment of Schizophrenia involves a combination of therapy, medication, social support and lifestyle changes. There are, however, few self-care tips also which have proven to be effective.

  • Seek social support from friends and family
  • Manage stress
  • Exercise regularly
  • Get plenty of sleep
  • Avoid alcohol, nicotine, and drugs
  • Eat nutritious meals regularly

Remember that Schizophrenia requires treatment for a long-term, so one has to be patient to see positive results