Schizophrenia

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is one of the most serious mental disorders and can be potentially very disabling. The exact cause of schizophrenia is still not known but it is thought to be related to altered levels of chemicals in the brain.
Schizophrenia is an illness which, although disruptive, can be controlled and many sufferers respond to medication and can resume a normal or near normal life.

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Who gets schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia affects 1 person in a 100 at some time in his/her life. It affects people from all walks of life and can start at any age, but most commonly begins in late teenage years or the early 20s. It is equally common in men and women.

How will schizophrenia affect me?

People with schizophrenia can be affected in different ways. The most common symptoms of schizophrenia are described below.

How long does schizophrenia last?

Some people only have a single episode of schizophrenia and recover fully. Other people have a series of attacks throughout their lives. Unfortunately, some people may be permanently disabled. However, with appropriate care and support from your doctors, nurses, family and friends you will be able to cope.

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How can schizophrenia be treated?

Schizophrenia can be treated with medicine in the form of tablets or long-acting injections. Most people get some side-effects but your doctor or nurse will tailor your treatment to minimise these.
Some people with schizophrenia will be able to come off treatment after about a year or two. Other people may need to continue treatment with regular doses for a longer period of time. However, your doctor will tell you when and how to stop your treatment.
As well as medical treatment you and your family will also receive support from your community psychiatric nurse (CPN). He or she will be able to tailor the support to your individual needs and be flexible enough to provide the right kind of help whenever it is needed and be able to spot any sign of trouble to prevent a relapse.

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Symptoms of schizophrenia

• False beliefs - thinking people are conspiring against you when they are not or believing that you are someone else, perhaps a famous person.
• Hearing voices that no one else can hear or seeing, tasting, smelling or feeling things that are not there (hallucinations).
• Believing that objects, events or people control your thoughts or actions in a way that can't be explained.
• Confused and muddled thinking; speech may be hard to understand.
• Loss of feelings or emotions.
• Loss of energy and interest in other people; becoming wrapped up in yourself.

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Help yourself

• Try to lead as normal a life as possible. ? It is very important to take your medicine as recommended by your doctor or nurse. ? If your treatment is given by injection it is important that you keep all the appointments your doctor has made for you.
• Never just stop your treatment. If you feel that your medication is not working or if you start feeling anxious or confused tell your doctor or nurse. They may decide to alter the dose or change your medication.
• If you feel low or depressed it is important to talk to your doctor, family and friends.
• Join a support group such as those below.

Further information

This factsheet supported by Zeneca & Eli Lilly

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