Schizophrenia is often misunderstood, which can make the diagnosis intense for both those living with it and their loved ones. But by learning more about what it is—its symptoms, treatment options, and the myths surrounding it—you can start to understand the condition better and take steps toward managing it.
Whether you’re exploring care options for yourself or someone you care about, Northeast Health Services can support your mental health needs with compassionate expertise. Our schizophrenia treatment services in Massachusetts can help you take the next step in your mental health journey.
What to Know About Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a complex mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. This condition is relatively rare, affecting about 1% of the population.1 Schizophrenia is a condition where someone might experience distorted realities, like hallucinations or delusions.
What Are the Symptoms of Schizophrenia?
Experts generally divide schizophrenia symptoms into positive and negative categories. Positive symptoms don’t mean they’re “good.” Instead, they refer to additional experiences not usually present in healthy individuals.
Positive symptoms of schizophrenia include:
- Hallucinations – Perceiving sights, sounds, or sensations that are not present. In schizophrenia, auditory hallucinations, such as hearing voices, are the most common.
- Delusions – Firmly held false beliefs that persist despite contradictory evidence. For example, an individual may believe they are being followed or possess special abilities.
- Disorganized thinking or speech – Difficulty organizing thoughts or speaking clearly, making it hard for others to follow.
- Agitated or erratic movement – Unusual body movements or behaviors, like repetitive motions or complete stillness, disconnected from their surroundings.
Negative symptoms include a lack of motivation or interest in activities, difficulty expressing emotions, a reduced ability to experience pleasure, and social withdrawal. Understanding the symptoms of schizophrenia and the variety of treatment options available is vital for people to regain control over their lives.
What Are the Subtypes of Schizophrenia?
The current diagnostic framework no longer categorizes schizophrenia into subtypes, but understanding the concepts behind these older classifications remains helpful. Historically, experts divided schizophrenia into subtypes:
- Paranoid
- Disorganized
- Catatonic
- Undifferentiated
- Residual
Each of these subtypes has distinct patterns of symptoms. For instance, what was once known as paranoid schizophrenia was associated with prominent hallucinations and delusions, while catatonic schizophrenia might involve extreme disruptions in physical movement or activity. Mental health professionals now focus on identifying and treating the unique impact of each symptom on the individual without relying on subtypes.
What Are the Myths Surrounding This Condition?
Unfortunately, many misconceptions exist about schizophrenia. These myths contribute to stigma, making it harder for people to seek the help they need. Below are three common myths and the truth behind them:
- Myth: People with schizophrenia are dangerous – Reality: Most people with schizophrenia aren’t violent and are more likely to be victims of violence than perpetrators.
- Myth: Schizophrenia always leads to a poor quality of life. – Reality: With proper treatment and support, many people with schizophrenia live fulfilling, meaningful lives.
- Myth: You can’t treat schizophrenia. – Reality: While it’s a chronic condition, modern schizophrenia treatment can help manage symptoms effectively.
By dispelling these myths, we build a more understanding and supportive community for those living with schizophrenia.
Get Started on Schizophrenia Treatment with Northeast Health Services in Massachusetts
Living with schizophrenia can be tough, but it’s important to remember that real progress is possible with the right support. Whether you’re looking for treatment for yourself or trying to better understand how to help someone you care about, you don’t have to face it alone. Northeast Health Services provides compassionate, accessible mental health care to support healing and build hope for the future. Call 508.794.8711 to learn more.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your mental health journey, click here to reach out to our team of empathetic mental health care experts. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.
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