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Unfortunately, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding schizophrenia, which lead to unnecessary fear, ignorance and stigmatisation. These misunderstandings are largely attributable to the media who tend to distort the condition, and through the misuse of words relating to schizophrenia in everyday language. Below we dispel some of the most common myths.
Myth: Schizophrenia is a split personality
Fact: A split personality, in which two or more personalities exist within the same person, is a rare psychiatric illness called ’dissociative disorder’. People with schizophrenia have only ONE personality. The word ’schizophrenia’ comes from the Greek word meaning ’split’ and this is perhaps where the confusion started. However, schizophrenia is a split from reality rather than a split in personality.
Myth: People with schizophrenia are violent
Fact: This is another very common and unfounded myth, which is exacerbated by the media. People who have schizophrenia are no more likely to be violent than any other group in society. There is, however, an increased risk of self-harm among people with schizophrenia. Because of the nature of the illness, violence is self-directed either through fear, delusional thinking or the decision to ’no longer cope’ with the illness. It is fair to say that a person with schizophrenia has more to fear from the general community than the reverse, as they are often on the receiving end of quite severe stigmatisation, misunderstanding and outright discrimination.
Myth: The family causes schizophrenia
Fact: In the past, family dysfunction has been implicated in the cause of schizophrenia. Research has failed to support this causal link. The guilt and self-blame promoted by this belief presents a strong potential for harm both for the person with schizophrenia and the carer). Accordingly, family interventions based on this idea should never be used. However, family conflict can impact on the course of schizophrenia. When people with schizophrenia live in a setting with high levels of emotional conflict, criticism, and over-protection/involvement they have an increased rate of relapse compared to people with schizophrenia who live in settings without these characteristics. Therefore family interventions that encourage effective coping strategies and teach problem-solving skills can be very beneficial.
Myth: There is no hope of people with schizophrenia recovering
Fact: A diagnosis of schizophrenia does not necessarily mean that a lifelong illness is inevitable. People do improve and recover and hope is regarded as an essential ingredient for this recovery.
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