Schizophrenia is a complex and often misunderstood mental health condition that affects approximately 1% of the population worldwide. While many are familiar with the term, there is still a significant gap in understanding what it truly means to live with schizophrenia and how to provide support for those affected. As a therapist, I aim to shed light on this condition and offer guidance to foster empathy, reduce stigma, and encourage a supportive community.
What Is Schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder characterized by disruptions in thinking, perception, emotions, and behavior. It is not, as often portrayed in the media, a condition of “split personalities.” Instead, it involves a disconnect from reality, commonly manifesting in symptoms such as:
• Hallucinations: Hearing, seeing, or feeling things that aren’t present (e.g., hearing voices).
• Delusions: Strongly held false beliefs that contradict reality (e.g., believing one is being persecuted or has special powers).
• Disorganized Thinking: Difficulty organizing thoughts, making speech fragmented or hard to follow.
• Negative Symptoms: Reduced emotional expression, lack of motivation, or withdrawal from social activities.
• Cognitive Symptoms: Challenges with memory, attention, or decision-making.
These symptoms often emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood, and the severity can vary widely among individuals.
In our next blog post, we will look at reducing the stigma of this disorder, as well as the various treatments available.
Liza Linder, MSW, LCSW, is a therapist with 30 years of experience serving the LGBTQ+ and PLWHIV communities. Liza is in person only, in our Philadelphia offices. For more information about Liza, please click on the therapist’s bios.