Schizophrenia
What is Schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a serious mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. People with schizophrenia may have difficulty distinguishing what is real from what is not, which can cause challenges in daily life, relationships, and work.
Schizophrenia affects about 1% of the population worldwide.
WHO: World Health Organization [source]
Symptoms and Patterns
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Hallucinations (hearing voices, seeing things that aren’t there), delusions (strong false beliefs), or disorganized thinking and speech.
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Panic attacks or sudden feelings of terror that come on without warning are common characteristics of a panic disorder. Sometimes these attacks can be so severe they can mimic the symptoms of a real heart attack. Symptoms can include chest pain, dizziness, irregular heartbeats, and shortness of breath.
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Trouble concentrating, problems with memory, or difficulty making decisions.
WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is one of the most researched therapies for schizophrenia. It helps individuals challenge delusions, cope with hallucinations, and reduce distress. CBT also focuses on improving daily functioning and building healthy routines.
Cognitive Remediation Therapy
This therapy strengthens thinking skills such as attention, memory, and problem-solving, which are often impacted in schizophrenia. It can improve confidence and support success in school, work, and relationships.
Family Therapy and Psychoeducation
Working with family members helps reduce stress at home, teaches effective communication, and improves support for recovery. Families learn practical ways to encourage treatment and prevent relapse.
Social Skills and Supported Employment
Therapy programs that build social skills, job readiness, and community functioning help individuals live more independently and reach personal goals.
MEDICATION
Antipsychotic Medications
These are the most common treatment for schizophrenia. They help reduce hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. Options include oral medications and long-acting injectables that provide steady symptom control.
Antidepressants. Many antidepressants may also be useful for treating anxiety. These can also be useful if your anxiety has a co-occurring depression.
SELF MANAGEMENT
Establish daily routines
Mindfulness and grounding techniques
Avoid drugs and alcohol
Build a support system
Track stressors and triggers
HOW DO I GET HELP?
BECOME AN EXPERT
Learn about medication and treatment options. Keep up with current research. Build a personal library of useful websites and helpful books.
KNOW YOUR TRIGGERS AND STRESSORS
If large groups make you nervous, plan to see the Sunday matinee. If taking a walk outdoors reduces your anxiety before a big meeting, schedule a 10-minute walk before the meeting starts. Being mindful of triggers and stressors will help you live your life with fewer limitations.
PARTNER WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS
Actively participate in your treatment by working with mental health care professionals to develop a plan that works for you. Talk with them about your goals, decide on a recovery pace you’re comfortable with, and stick to your plan. Don’t quit when something doesn’t go well. Instead, talk to your doctor or therapist about possible changes.
GET HEALTHY
Exercise, balanced nutrition, and relaxation practices like yoga or meditation support mental well-being. Physical health and mental health are closely connected.
REACH OUT IN CRISIS
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, Text LIFE to 741741. Trained therapists are available 24/7 to assist.