Did you know that Schizophrenia affects over 21 million people all across the globe?

What’s more, is that one out of two people suffering from schizophrenia doesn’t receive the right care for their condition.

As we celebrate World Schizophrenia Day today May 24, let’s learn a thing or two about schizophrenia. The facts that you didn’t know about such mental health conditions and how they can be treated.

What is Schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a medical condition that affects the normal functioning of the brain, which affects an individual’s ability to think, feel, and behave. While some recover from this ailment, for others, this condition can be a prolonged one.

Some facts about schizophrenia that you aren’t aware of:

World Mental health Week is being observed from May 20 to May 27 worldwide to spread mental health awareness. In this World Schizophrenia Day, let’s discuss some unknown facts relating to this condition that you must know.

1. Schizophrenia can be treated

There’s no specific cure for this ailment but there are medications available to reduce the impact of this illness. Continuous dependence on medication for schizophrenia can decrease the effect of this ailment.

2. Schizophrenics aren’t ‘crazy people’

When it comes to mental health, the level of awareness among individuals is less. When it comes to schizophrenia, the awareness level is close to zero, which makes people develop the misconception that people suffering from schizophrenia are crazy. But only by having a thorough knowledge about this condition, can one make people see the true story.

3. Schizophrenia isn’t always hereditary

The chances of getting schizophrenia increase if any family member suffers from it. However, this condition is not always genetic. Although we cannot point out where this condition starts, substance abuse can be a factor.

4. Schizophrenia patients cannot follow a daily routine

A misconception about schizophrenics is that they cannot perform daily chores, which is completely untrue. While it may be hard for a schizophrenic to do daily work, the right medication allows them to perform their tasks well, just like the others.

5. Schizophrenia is difficult to detect

In this World Mental Health Week, allow us to let you in on a secret. Unlike other diseases and ailments, mental illness is one such condition that is difficult to detect. However, this condition needs proper counseling. Some of the symptoms are speech problems and a sense of paranoia, among others.

Treatment plans for schizophrenia

Medication: There are medications that help the brain activity to become normal and restore its normal balance.

Support groups: Find a support group that offers all the important information, accommodation, education, and psycho-social rehabilitation. Having people who understand you and your condition can help to a great extent.

This World Mental Health Week, give your mental health the attention that it deserves. If you or someone you know suffers from schizophrenia, then awareness, attitude, and approach can improve this condition.