24/05/2025
May 24th is Schizophrenia Awareness Day!
Schizophrenia is a complex mental disorder that alters a person’s experience of reality.
It affects how a person thinks, feels, and connects with the world around them. It’s often misunderstood – and still shown poorly in mainstream culture - but it’s more common than many people realise.
It is estimated that between 150,000 and 200,000 Australians are living with schizophrenia. It normally shows up between the ages of 15 and 25, although it can develop (or become more noticeable) later in life.
Genetics is the leading cause of schizophrenia, but a range of factors influence how likely a person is to develop it. Trauma (especially in childhood), high stress, changes to brain chemistry and substance abuse (drug or alcohol) can all increase the possibility of developing schizophrenia.
Symptoms include hallucinations, delusions, disorganised thinking and behaviour, or a lack of motivation and emotional expression.
While schizophrenia cannot be cured, it can be treated and managed with medication and psychological support. Lifestyle choices such as improved sleep, maintaining physical health, and the use of support networks and prevention plans can also help reduce the effects.
People with schizophrenia can live full, independent lives but they often face challenges accessing housing, employment, and the right kind of healthcare. A lot of that is made harder by the stigma that still exists around serious mental health conditions.
