Despite modern advances in treatment and a greater openness for talking about mental health, people often misunderstand schizophrenia. Here’s what to know about the condition.
Truth: Schizophrenia Is Not the Same as Having a Split Personality
The number of episodes a person with schizophrenia experiences can vary, but there will be times when it’s better or worse. This is not the same as having a split personality. “Schizophrenia shows up when a person is having an episode. It can be episodic and relapsing-remitting,” explains Diane Solomon, PhD, a psychotherapist based in Portland, Oregon.
Kody Green
Living with schizophrenia
‘I’ve gotten a lot of misconceptions over the years about schizophrenia. … [Humor] helps me be able to still talk about these things but do it in a way that isn’t so traumatic.’
Transcript Available
Truth: Schizophrenia Is Not the Result of a ‘Bad’ Childhood
Truth: People With Schizophrenia Are Not Violent or Dangerous
Truth: You Can Work When You Have Schizophrenia
Although some may think that people who have schizophrenia are unpredictable and unreliable, “With excellent treatment, people with schizophrenia can have a job, a life, all the things,” says Dr. Solomon. And you can even ask for certain accommodations to help you be successful on the job.
Truth: There’s No Cure for Schizophrenia, But It Can Be Treated
A prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to managing schizophrenia. “Just like diabetes or high blood pressure, if you identify schizophrenia early and you do everything you can, it’s going to be a lot less severe,” Solomon notes. “The sooner we get a diagnosis and start treatment, the better.”
