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Schizophrenia 

Schizophrenia is a severe and chronic mental health condition that affects how a person perceives reality, thinks, feels, and behaves. It can significantly interfere with daily functioning, relationships, work, and self-care.

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Individuals with schizophrenia may experience disturbances in perception, emotions, and behaviour. Mood changes can occur, ranging from emotional withdrawal and apathy to agitation or distress. For many, emotions may feel unpredictable or overwhelming, making everyday life challenging.

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Schizophrenia affects approximately 0.3–0.7% of the population worldwide. In India, the lifetime prevalence of schizophrenia spectrum disorders is estimated to be around 0.42%.

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At Vriddhi Centre for Mental Health, we emphasise that schizophrenia is a medical and neurobiological condition, not a personal failure or weakness.

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Common Symptoms of Schizophrenia

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Symptoms of schizophrenia are generally grouped into the following categories:

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Positive Symptoms

These involve experiences that are added to normal functioning:

  • Delusions: Strongly held false beliefs, such as feeling watched, persecuted, or receiving special or coded messages

  • Hallucinations: Seeing, hearing, or sensing things that are not present, commonly hearing voices

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Disorganised Thinking and Behaviour

  • Incoherent or disorganised speech (sudden topic changes, incomplete sentences, illogical responses)

  • Disorganised behaviour, such as repeated movements, unusual postures, or disturbed gait

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Negative Symptoms

These reflect a reduction or loss of normal functioning:

  • Reduced emotional expression

  • Social withdrawal

  • Lack of motivation

  • Difficulty engaging in routine activities such as self-care, personal hygiene, household tasks, or social interaction

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At Vriddhi, we assess not only symptoms but also how schizophrenia affects daily functioning, independence, dignity, and quality of life.

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Schizophrenia in Adolescents

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Early-onset schizophrenia refers to schizophrenia diagnosed before the age of 18. Identifying schizophrenia in adolescents can be challenging because some symptoms may overlap with normal developmental changes.

Possible early warning signs include:

  • Social withdrawal or isolation

  • Decline in academic performance or difficulty keeping up with schoolwork

  • Sleep disturbances

  • Increased irritability, anxiety, or low mood

  • Reduced motivation or interest in activities

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Substance use, particularly marijuana, methamphetamine, or LSD, can also produce symptoms that resemble or worsen psychotic symptoms and must be carefully evaluated during assessment.

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Living With Schizophrenia

Living with schizophrenia can be extremely challenging—for both the individual and their family. The condition often requires long-term, comprehensive treatment, which may include:

  • Antipsychotic medication, prescribed and monitored by a psychiatrist

  • Psychotherapy and supportive counselling

  • Psychoeducation for individuals and families

  • Social, occupational, and rehabilitation support

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With appropriate treatment, continuity of care, and support, many individuals with schizophrenia are able to achieve stability, maintain relationships, and lead meaningful and productive lives.

It is crucial to remember that schizophrenia is a mental health disorder, not a reflection of intelligence, character, or effort. Reducing stigma, correcting misinformation, and promoting empathy are essential for recovery and social inclusion.

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At Vriddhi Centre for Mental Health, we work collaboratively with individuals and families to provide structured, respectful, and evidence-based care focused on long-term recovery and dignity.

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