Conditions we treat
Schizophrenia
Living with schizophrenia can feel confusing and isolating. If you are experiencing voices or visions, beliefs others do not share, or changes in thinking, motivation or emotion, support is available.
Understanding it
What is schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a complex and often misunderstood psychiatric condition that affects a person's ability to distinguish what is real. It causes hallucinations, delusions and disordered thinking.
A common misconception is that schizophrenia means having multiple or split personalities. It does not. The condition affects around one percent of the population, usually appears in early adulthood, and is managed with ongoing treatment.
Recognising it
Signs and symptoms
You do not need to recognise all of these, and you do not need to be at your worst before seeking care.
- Hallucinations — hearing or seeing things others do not
- Delusions — firmly held beliefs that others do not share
- Disorganised thinking or speech
- Difficulty with memory and concentration
- Reduced motivation or emotional expression
- Difficulty understanding or expressing emotions
Living with schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a lifelong condition that requires ongoing treatment to manage symptoms. People living with it face genuine challenges, and with appropriate care many lead active and fulfilling lives. Risk of substance use difficulty is higher, and is addressed as part of care.
Our approach
How we approach schizophrenia
Care is personalised. What follows describes the approaches available — what applies to you is decided with your clinician.
A comprehensive diagnostic evaluation
Medication management, including long-acting options where appropriate
Supportive and cognitive behavioural therapies
Skills training
Family education
Coordination with community resources
Common questions
Schizophrenia, answered
Is schizophrenia treatable?
It is a chronic condition that is managed rather than cured. Ongoing treatment aims to control symptoms and support day-to-day functioning.
What are long-acting medication options?
Some medications can be given as a longer-acting injection rather than taken daily. Whether that suits you is a clinical decision made with your clinician.
Can family members be involved?
Family education is part of the approach where you want it to be. What is shared, and with whom, is always your decision.
Other conditions we treat
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Request an appointment online, or call the office and speak to someone directly.