Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a complex mental illness which affects how people think, feel and behave.

People with schizophrenia often experience hallucinations, such as hearing voices. Some people have delusions, where they believe things that are not true. Their speech and behaviour may appear muddled and illogical, and they may stop taking care of themselves.

Schizophrenia usually develops when people are young: between 15 and 35. Some people will have only one period of being unwell, while others will have episodes throughout their lifetime. Many people with schizophrenia will have long periods of feeling healthy.

There are a lot of myths about schizophrenia. Many people believe that it is a 'split personality', or that people with schizophrenia are violent and must be treated in hospital.

None of these are true. Most people with schizophrenia are able to live satisfying and fulfilling lives in the community, although this sometimes involves support or medication.

If you think you, or someone you know, has schizophrenia, it is important to get medical help. There is a lot of evidence that getting good treatment, as early as possible, offers the best chance of recovery.