When we hear the word schizophrenia, most of us picture scenes from movies, people hearing voices, acting unpredictably, or being completely detached from reality. But these portrayals often miss the mark. The truth is, schizophrenia is a complex and often misunderstood mental illness, and it affects people across age groups, backgrounds, and walks of life. While symptoms most commonly appear in late adolescence or early adulthood, schizophrenia can impact individuals at different life stages, making early recognition and appropriate support essential. It doesn’t define who a person is, but rather presents challenges that, with the right care, can be managed. At Samvedna Care, we often meet families who feel overwhelmed after hearing a loved one has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. The questions are many: Is it curable? Will life ever be normal again? What does this diagnosis mean? Through conversations and proper mental health assessments, we help them understand that while schizophrenia is challenging, it is manageable and, most importantly, that there is hope.
So, what exactly is schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a long-term mental health condition that affects how a person perceives and interacts with the world. It’s not about having “two personalities,” as many believe. Symptoms usually fall into three areas:
A proper mental health assessment is the first and most crucial step in identifying these symptoms early. Early diagnosis leads to better treatment outcomes and can make a real difference in quality of life.
Myths vs. Reality
Myth: Schizophrenia means a split personality.
Fact: Schizophrenia is not the same as Dissociative Identity Disorder (formerly called multiple personality disorder). It involves disruptions in thought processes, perceptions, and emotional responsiveness, not multiple identities. This confusion, often reinforced by media portrayals, has significantly distorted public understanding.
Myth: Schizophrenia is rare.
Fact: Schizophrenia is not rare. Globally, it affects about 1 in 100 people, and in India, the estimated prevalence is around 3 to 4 per 1,000 individuals, according to studies by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Mental Health Survey.
Myth: People with schizophrenia cannot lead fulfilling lives.
Fact: While schizophrenia is a chronic condition, many individuals can and do manage their symptoms effectively through a combination of medication, psychosocial therapies, lifestyle changes, and community support. Early diagnosis through mental health assessment significantly improves outcomes and quality of life.
Myth: Schizophrenia is always inherited.
Fact: While genetics does play a role, schizophrenia is not solely inherited. Having a family member with schizophrenia may increase one’s risk, but many people diagnosed with the condition have no family history. Environmental factors such as trauma, infections during birth, or substance use can also contribute to its development.
Myth 8: Medication is the only treatment for schizophrenia.
Fact: Medication is an important component of treatment, but it is not the only one. Effective care also includes psychotherapy, psychosocial interventions, cognitive rehabilitation, and family education. Mental health assessment helps determine the right combination of approaches for each individual.
What does living with schizophrenia look like?
It’s not easy, but it’s not hopeless either. People with schizophrenia may need structure, understanding, and a care plan that works for them. With the right support systems in place, family, therapists, and support groups, they can build lives full of meaning and connection.
At Samvedna Care, we work with individuals and their families to build personalized care plans that address emotional, social, and medical needs. Sometimes, just knowing they’re not alone makes all the difference.
How families and communities can help
Stigma is often more damaging than the illness itself. When people feel judged or misunderstood, they’re less likely to seek help. Families and communities play a key role in changing this. Listening without judgment, encouraging treatment, and educating ourselves about schizophrenia can create a ripple effect of support.
Simple actions like attending therapy sessions with a loved one, helping with medication reminders, or just being present can go a long way. It’s about showing the person they matter beyond the label.
Let’s move away from fear and misinformation and move toward awareness and compassion. Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness, but it doesn’t define a person. Behind every diagnosis is a human being with strengths, struggles, and growth potential.
The more we learn, the more we can support. The more we support, the less alone someone feels. And at Samvedna Care, that’s exactly what we aim to help people feel seen, heard, and supported, no matter where they are on their mental health journey. From early mental health assessments to caregiver support, psychotherapy, family counselling and psychoeducation, and psychiatric care at home, our services are designed to meet individuals and families where they are with empathy, expertise, and ongoing care.
Samvedna Care, G-7 Oriental Villas, Sushant Lok III, Sector 57, Gurgaon
Samvedna Care, C-13 Anand Niketan, New Delhi
+91 74280 97301
