National Schizophrenia Awareness Day

You cannot tell if someone is living with schizophrenia just by looking at them.

Schizophrenia affects people in different ways, but some symptoms include hallucinations (such as hearing voices), changes in beliefs or perceptions, difficulties with concentration, reduced motivation, or changes in mood and behaviour. However, these experiences are not unique to schizophrenia and can happen for many different reasons.

Only a qualified healthcare professional can diagnose schizophrenia. If you are concerned about your own mental health or someone else’s, it is important to seek professional advice.

The most respectful approach is to refer to the person first, rather than their diagnosis.

For example, many people prefer terms such as “a person living with schizophrenia” or “someone who has schizophrenia”.

Language preferences can vary from person to person. Some people may be comfortable describing themselves as schizophrenic, while others may not. When possible, it’s always best to use the language that the individual prefers.

The term schizophrenia was introduced by Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler in the early 1900s.

The name has roots in Greek words meaning “split” and “mind”, which has often led to misunderstanding of the condition. Schizophrenia does not mean that someone has a “split personality” or multiple personalities.

Instead, schizophrenia is a complex mental health condition that can affect how a person experiences reality, thinks, feels and behaves.

More than 600,000 people in the UK are estimated to live with schizophrenia.

Although schizophrenia is less common than conditions such as anxiety or depression, it affects hundreds of thousands of individuals and families across the country.

Yes. Many people living with schizophrenia are employed or return to work following treatment and support.

The impact of schizophrenia varies from person to person. Some people may need adjustments, flexible working arrangements, or periods away from work during difficult times. Others may work without needing any additional support.

Having schizophrenia does not automatically prevent someone from having a successful career. With appropriate treatment, support and understanding from employers, many people thrive at work.

Yes. Schizophrenia does not automatically prevent someone from becoming or working as a teacher.

Teachers are assessed on their ability to carry out their role safely and effectively. A diagnosis of schizophrenia does not preclude them from the profession.

Many people with long-term mental health conditions work successfully in education and other professions. Support, treatment and reasonable adjustments can help people manage their mental health while continuing their careers.

No. Most people living with schizophrenia are not violent or dangerous.

Research shows that people living with mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, are often more likely to experience stigma, discrimination and harm than to cause harm to others.

Unfortunately, media portrayals and stereotypes have contributed to the false belief that schizophrenia is linked to violence. These misconceptions can increase stigma and make it harder for people to seek help and support.

It’s important to remember that schizophrenia is a health condition, not a personality trait, and people living with schizophrenia should not be judged based on harmful stereotypes.