5 Myths about Schizophrenia

I remember meeting Lasse, a young architect with a sharp mind and a knack for finding beauty in the most unexpected places.

He was the kind of person who could look at an abandoned factory and see a future café or a derelict house and imagine it as a cozy family home.

But Lasse carried a secret that weighed heavily on his shoulders—a diagnosis of schizophrenia.

One day, over coffee in a small café by the harbor, with the salty sea air brushing our faces, Lasse opened up about his experience.

He said, "Most people think I'm dangerous or that I have a split personality. It's like they’re watching a horror movie instead of seeing me as I am."

His words hit me hard. I realized just how much misinformation there still is about schizophrenia.

Myth 1: Schizophrenia Means Split Personalities

This is one of the most persistent myths I encounter. People often think schizophrenia means having two personalities trapped in one body, fighting for control.

But that’s not the case at all. Schizophrenia is about how the brain processes reality. It can lead to hallucinations, where someone might hear voices or see things that others don't. It can cause delusions—fixed beliefs that aren’t based in reality.

But it does not mean split personalities.

That’s another condition altogether. What’s really “split” in schizophrenia is the connection between different aspects of the mind—like thought, emotion, and perception. Imagine trying to listen to your favorite podcast, but every other word is muffled or distorted.

That’s closer to what someone with schizophrenia might experience.

Myth 2: People with Schizophrenia Are Dangerous

I could see the hurt in Lasse’s eyes when he talked about this one.

The idea that people with schizophrenia are dangerous or violent is deeply ingrained in our culture. Movies, TV shows, and news headlines have a way of amplifying this fear.

But here’s the truth: people with schizophrenia are far more likely to be the victims of violence than the perpetrators.

Think about that for a moment. Imagine walking through a crowded train station, the hustle and bustle all around you. But for someone with schizophrenia, the noise might be overwhelming.

Every sound could feel sharper, every movement quicker. This sensory overload can make it hard to navigate everyday situations, let alone act violently.

Most people with schizophrenia are just trying to live their lives like anyone else—finding joy in their work, their families, and the small moments in between.

Myth 3: Schizophrenia Is Caused by Weakness or Bad Parenting

There’s also this misconception that schizophrenia is caused by some kind of personal failure—weak character, lack of discipline, or bad parenting. I’ve spoken with parents who feel tremendous guilt, convinced they did something wrong to cause their child’s condition.

But schizophrenia is not anyone’s fault.

It’s a complex brain disorder influenced by a mix of genetic, biological, and environmental factors.

Think of it like a storm brewing over the sea. You can’t control the winds or the tides, but you can navigate the boat through it with the right tools.

Understanding schizophrenia means understanding the science behind it—neurotransmitter imbalances, structural changes in the brain, and a predisposition that can be triggered by stress or trauma.

Myth 4: Schizophrenia Cannot Be Treated

I often hear, “Well, isn’t schizophrenia hopeless?”

No, it’s not. Schizophrenia is a chronic condition, but with the right combination of treatments—like medication, therapy, and social support—people can and do lead fulfilling lives.

Remember Lasse? He’s working on designing a new sustainable building project in Copenhagen, something he’s dreamed of for years.

Treatment is like building a strong foundation for a house.

Without it, the walls might crumble, but with careful planning and the right materials, the house can stand tall, even through tough weather.

And the field of psychiatry is constantly evolving. New therapies, medications, and holistic approaches are helping people with schizophrenia to manage their symptoms more effectively than ever before.

Myth 5: Schizophrenia Means Cognitive Decline

It’s true that some people with schizophrenia experience cognitive challenges—like difficulties with memory or problem-solving.

But it doesn’t mean everyone with the condition will have severe impairments. It varies from person to person.

I’ve seen people with schizophrenia who are brilliant thinkers, artists, and professionals. They might just need a different approach or a bit more time to get there.

Think of it like running a race. Some might sprint from the start, while others take their time, finding their rhythm later.

But both can cross the finish line in their own way.

Breaking the Stigma: A New Perspective

So why do these myths persist?

Fear, lack of understanding, and the human tendency to categorize what we don’t understand. But here’s what I know for sure: understanding schizophrenia begins with empathy. It starts with seeing the person, not the label.

The next time you meet someone like Lasse, remember his story.

Think about the quiet strength it takes to navigate a world that doesn’t always understand. And maybe, just maybe, offer a little kindness—a warm smile, a moment of patience, a listening ear.

Because breaking down these myths is not just about education. It’s about creating a world where people with schizophrenia feel seen, heard, and valued for who they truly are.

So, let’s start here. Let’s be the change in our own circles, in our workplaces, in our communities.

Together, we can make a difference, one conversation at a time.

Warmly,

Florina