Tell us what you think about the Siblings Network

Schizophrenia

If your brother or sister has been diagnosed with schizophrenia, this means that they are experiencing a form of psychosis.

Someone who is experiencing schizophrenia may experience hallucinations, where they can see, hear, smell, taste or feel things that are not really there. They might also have delusions where they believe things are happening that are not real, such as thinking that the TV is talking to them or that their thoughts are being controlled by someone else.

If your brother or sister is experiencing schizophrenia, they will need to see their GP and then get help from a mental health specialist. They may get treatment with medication and also by talking to a mental health professional, for instance a psychiatrist.

However, hearing voices in young people does not mean that they necessarily have schizophrenia and it may be a symptom of anxiety or depression. 

If you, your sibling or your parents are worried that your brother or sister is experiencing schizophrenia, you should contact your GP for help.

You can also contact Rethink's Advice and Information Service to find out more.