Schizophrenia: A Psychiatrist Perspective – Dr. Rohit Deshmukh ( Psychiatrist in Mumbai)

“I Hear Voices… But No One’s There.”

One quiet evening in Mumbai, 23-year-old Rohan started hearing voices in his head. At first, he blamed stress. But soon, the voices got louder — they mocked him, gave him commands, and made him fearful. He isolated himself, believing his neighbors were watching him through the walls.

His family dismissed it as “just tension.” Months later, after a frightening outburst, he was finally taken to a psychiatrist. The diagnosis? Schizophrenia.

Rohan’s story isn’t rare. Over 4 million people in India live with schizophrenia, yet many go undiagnosed due to social stigma, lack of awareness, and misunderstanding.

Let’s explore what schizophrenia actually is — and why it’s time to start talking about it openly.

What is Schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. People with schizophrenia may seem like they have lost touch with reality.

Contrary to popular belief, schizophrenia is not split personality disorder. It’s a brain-based illness involving psychosis, where one cannot distinguish between what’s real and what isn’t.

Common Symptoms of Schizophrenia

 

Symptoms usually begin in late teens or early adulthood. They fall into three broad categories:

Positive Symptoms (Added experiences)

• Hallucinations – hearing voices, seeing things that aren’t real
• Delusions – false, fixed beliefs (e.g., thinking others want to harm them)
• Disorganized speech or behavior

Negative Symptoms (Reduced functioning)

• Lack of motivation
• Blunted emotions
• Social withdrawal
• Reduced speech

Cognitive Symptoms

• Trouble focusing
• Poor memory
• Difficulty in decision-making
• What Causes Schizophrenia?There is no single cause. Schizophrenia usually develops due to a mix of biological, genetic, and environmental factors:
  • Family history of mental illness
  • Chemical imbalances in the brain (especially dopamine)
  • Prenatal exposure to infections or malnutrition
  • Substance abuse (especially cannabis or LSD in youth)
  • High-stress environments

  Who is at Risk?

  • Age group 16–30 years, especially young men
  • Those with a family history of schizophrenia or psychotic disorders
  • People exposed to trauma or emotional stress
  • Individuals who use drugs that affect brain chemistry

  How is Schizophrenia Diagnosed in India?

  Diagnosis is clinical, meaning it relies on careful observation and psychological evaluation by a psychiatrist.

  It typically includes:

  • Detailed psychiatric interview
  • Observation of speech, thoughts, and behavior
  • Ruling out conditions like epilepsy, substance abuse, or brain infections
  • Feedback from family or caregivers

  Currently, there is no blood test or brain scan that can directly confirm schizophrenia, though MRI or EEG may help rule out other causes.

• Schizophrenia Treatment in India 

  Treatment works best when started early and includes a combination of the following:

   

   1. Medications

  • Antipsychotics are the primary treatment
  • Available in tablet and long-acting injectable forms
  • Help reduce hallucinations and stabilize thoughts

   

   2. Psychotherapy

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to deal with delusions and irrational fears
  • Family therapy to support caregivers
  • Social skills training for independent living

   3. Community Support

  • Government and private mental health clinics in India offer follow-up and rehabilitation
  • NGOs and District Mental Health Programs (DMHPs) provide low-cost care
  • Support groups are now emerging in urban areas

  Life After Diagnosis: Is Recovery Possible?

  Absolutely! With early and consistent treatment, many individuals with schizophrenia:

  • Return to work or college
  • Maintain relationships
  • Live independently
  • Contribute meaningfully to society

  Recovery is a journey, not a destination. Support from family and society makes all the difference.

•  Common Myths vs Facts 
  

  Myth	Fact
  Schizophrenia = split personality	False. It’s a break from reality, not identity
  It can’t be treated	False. It is treatable with medication and therapy
  People with schizophrenia are dangerous	Most are not. They are more at risk of being harmed
  It’s due to bad parenting	Not true. It’s a biological brain disorder

When Should You Consult a Psychiatrist?

 If you or a loved one experiences:

• Hearing or seeing things others don’t
• Persistent paranoia or suspiciousness
• Isolation or decline in functioning
• Talking in a disorganized or illogical manner

It’s time to seek help. Early intervention = Better recovery.

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 Can schizophrenia be cured?

It’s a chronic condition, but it can be effectively managed with long-term treatment and support.

 What is the cost of schizophrenia treatment in India?

It depends on the city and doctor.

• Private consultations: ₹500 to ₹2000
• Government hospitals: often free or subsidized
• Medications: ₹200–₹2000/month depending on brand/generic

 Where can I find schizophrenia treatment near me?

• Search “psychiatrist near me” or visit your district’s Mental Health Program
• Contact mental health NGOs or rehabilitation centers in India.
•  Final ThoughtsSchizophrenia is not a life sentence. It’s a medical condition that, like diabetes or high blood pressure, requires ongoing care and compassion.

  Let’s talk openly. Let’s reduce stigma. If someone around you is struggling — don’t ignore the signs. Be the reason they get help.

   

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   Need help? Looking for the best schizophrenia treatment near you?

  Book an appointment with our expert mental health team today.

• visit: https://drrohitdeshmukh.com