25 July is National Schizophrenia Awareness Day. This annual awareness-raising campaign about this illness is seriously needed: schizophrenia is perhaps the mental illness most plagued with stereotypes and misconceptions.

So, this Schizophrenia Awareness Day we’re busting some common myths about schizophrenia…

MYTH:

Everyone with schizophrenia is alike.

FACT:

There are multiple types of schizophrenia about which you can find out more here. People with schizophrenia experience a huge range of symptoms – while psychosis is common, the illness may equally manifest in memory problems or periods of depression.

MYTH:

Schizophrenia comes on suddenly, leading to Jekyll-and-Hyde-like transformations.

FACT:

Schizophrenia rarely manifests as a sudden, dramatic change in someone’s personality – instead, it tends to develop over months, with depressive symptoms common before a psychotic break.

MYTH:

Schizophrenic people have split personalities.

FACT:

Displaying multiple personalities is an entirely different illness – dissociative identity disorder.

MYTH:

Schizophrenia is the result of bad parenting.

FACT:

Schizophrenia is thought to be caused by a complex combination of genetic and environmental factors. It’s simply not true that bad parents are to be blamed.

MYTH:

People with schizophrenia are violent criminals.

FACT:

A 2013 study found people with schizophrenia are 5 times more likely to be victims of serious assault than other people.    When people with schizophrenia are involved in violence, often it is as a result of co-occurring substance abuse – or when they lack the support and stability they need.

MYTH:

People with schizophrenia are incapable of leading happy, fulfilling lives.

FACT:

A schizophrenia diagnosis doesn’t have to put happiness on hold … so long as sufferers receive the support and treatment they need, whether that is medication, talking therapy, or the provision of emotional and practical support from friends or charities like Hammersley Homes.

Everyone’s experience of schizophrenia is unique: it is a hugely complex and varied illness. Different sufferers’ support needs vary hugely.

Take a look at the ‘Our Services’ tab on our website to find out more about the Hammersley Homes programme – it’s all about support for life for those who need it, rather than rehabilitation and a return to independent living where isolation and struggles with daily tasks are ever present. While our focus is currently on our Outreach Programme – home visits and phone calls providing friendship and practical support – our ultimate goal is to expand into day centres and full-time supported accommodation so the most vulnerable sufferers are guaranteed a safe home for life, and support to help them live their best life.