Today is World Schizophrenia Day, a day to raise awareness about this illness and to eradicate the myths and stigma attached to mental illnesses in general.
Schizophrenia affects more than 24 million people worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. Common symptoms include thinking disorder, delusions, hallucinations, and negative syndrome. These induce severe loss of interest and social isolation.
The term schizophrenia literally means “a splitting of the mind.” Swiss psychiatrist Dr. Paul Eugen Bieuler coined it in 1908 The name adds to the common misconception that people living with the illness have a split personality.
Men at higher risk
The onset of schizophrenia starts in late adolescence up to early adulthood, typically between the ages of 15 to 28. Men tend to have a higher risk and earlier onset age of the illness than women. The exact cause of schizophrenia is unknown; however, researchers believe genetic and environmental factors play a role.