“You don’t have to be guided by the voices you hear” – Robert’s story

For National Schizophrenia Awareness Day, Robert shares his journey with schizophrenia. He reflects on his symptoms and offers hope to people living with psychosis.

Nine years ago, I was diagnosed with schizophrenia and started hearing voices while working in a factory. Once the voices started to manifest, I couldn't talk to anyone. I couldn't work, I couldn't enjoy my hobbies, and I had to stay in bed day and night.

I have observed that schizophrenia, accompanied by unusual experiences and psychosis, can fool and hypnotise you. In my case it was that I’d receive a very large amount of money, that I’m the best, most important person in the world; a Saint or God.

My father, at first, didn't know what I was going through and was angry with me. My older brother never understood me - he didn't want to hear from me while I was suffering and saying that he had to work to cover my share of the rent. But my mother supported me all the time and helped me.

If you hear voices, remember you can fight against them. You don’t have to be guided by the voices you hear. Try to differentiate between the thoughts that come from the illness and your own thoughts.

Imagine you are in a boxing ring and your opponent is hitting you repeatedly. How do you feel at that moment? It is natural to feel fear, disappointment and a lack of confidence. But what happens at that moment if you decide to fight back? If you do that, you will discourage him, you will have more time in which you can recover and you will gain self-confidence. You will create more opportunities for yourself.

How you fight against voices has no rules and can be very diverse. Create your own shield to use against the voices you hear.

In my case, for nine years I have been repeating to myself about ten times every day, that I must hold my breath for 15 - 20 seconds when I start to feel bad, powerless or have an urge to self-harm. It helps me to relieve pressure and feel calmer.

The community mental health team did everything they could to help me get better, whether through psychology sessions, finding the perfect medication, listening to me and helping me in every way. For that, I thank them very much for the professional and polite way they treated me.

I still hear voices, but I can handle them as they are not that loud. I am not able to work now - I can't withstand stressful situations like before. I spend my time participating in computer game competitions, gardening and playing football in a group.