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Charity works to correct mental health myths

The mental health charity Mind is working to separate the facts from the fiction and bust some common misconceptions about the illness schizophrenia.

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Myths and misconceptions on schizophrenia

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There are common myths associated with schizophrenia, which can be unhelpful. One is that is means the person has a split personality, but this is incorrect.

Another is that people with schizophrenia are violent. People with the disorder are much more likely to be a danger to themselves rather than to anyone else. Only a very small minority will become violent, much in the same way as a small minority of the general public may become violent.

There are no blood tests or scans to prove a person has schizophrenia. Only a psychiatrist can make a diagnosis and they do this by completing a full psychiatric assessment.

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Symptoms are classified as being either positive or negative, which refer more to them being active or passive. Positive refers to things like hallucinations and hearing voices, passive involves an extreme lack if interest and motivation in life.

Nobody knows exactly what causes schizophrenia but it's thought it's a mixture of genetic and environmental factors.

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Treatment usually involves both medication and talking therapies.

If you have concerns for yourself or a family member you should contact your GP.

For more information on the illness and to seek advice from Mind you can contact;

Guernsey Mind by clicking here

Mind Jersey by clicking here

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