Discover the Surprising Differences Between Psychosis and Schizophrenia with These Neurocognitive Assessment Tips.
| Step | Action | Novel Insight | Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Conduct a thorough neurocognitive assessment | Neurocognitive testing is crucial in differentiating between psychosis and schizophrenia | Patients may have difficulty with testing due to their symptoms |
| 2 | Evaluate for delusional beliefs | Delusional beliefs are a hallmark symptom of schizophrenia | Patients may not disclose their delusions due to fear of stigma or lack of insight |
| 3 | Assess for hallucinatory experiences | Hallucinations can occur in both psychosis and schizophrenia, but may differ in content and frequency | Patients may not report their hallucinations due to fear of being labeled as "crazy" |
| 4 | Evaluate for disorganized thinking | Disorganized thinking is a symptom of schizophrenia, but may also occur in other psychotic disorders | Patients may have difficulty with communication and organization, making it challenging to assess |
| 5 | Assess for negative symptoms | Negative symptoms, such as apathy and lack of motivation, are more common in schizophrenia than other psychotic disorders | Patients may not report these symptoms as they may not realize they are abnormal |
| 6 | Consider differential diagnosis | Other conditions, such as bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder with psychotic features, can present with similar symptoms to schizophrenia | Misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate treatment |
| 7 | Prescribe antipsychotic medication | Antipsychotic medication is the mainstay of treatment for schizophrenia | Side effects, such as weight gain and movement disorders, can occur |
| 8 | Consider psychotherapy treatment | Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can be used in conjunction with medication to improve outcomes | Access to therapy may be limited for some patients |
Overall, it is important to conduct a thorough neurocognitive assessment when evaluating for psychosis and schizophrenia. Delusional beliefs, hallucinatory experiences, disorganized thinking, and negative symptoms are all important symptoms to evaluate. Differential diagnosis should also be considered to ensure appropriate treatment. Antipsychotic medication and psychotherapy can be effective treatments, but may have side effects and limited access for some patients.
Contents
- What are the Delusional Beliefs Associated with Psychosis and Schizophrenia?
- How Do Hallucinatory Experiences Differ in Psychosis and Schizophrenia?
- What is Disorganized Thinking and its Role in Diagnosing Psychosis vs Schizophrenia?
- Understanding Negative Symptoms in Patients with Psychosis or Schizophrenia
- What Criteria Must be Met for a Schizophrenia Diagnosis to be Made?
- The Importance of Neurocognitive Testing in Assessing Psychotic Disorders
- Differential Diagnosis: Differentiating Between Psychosis and Schizophrenia
- Antipsychotic Medication: Treatment Options for Managing Symptoms of Psychotic Disorders
- Psychotherapy as an Adjunctive Treatment for Patients with Psychosis or Schizophrenia
- Common Mistakes And Misconceptions
- Related Resources
What are the Delusional Beliefs Associated with Psychosis and Schizophrenia?
| Step | Action | Novel Insight | Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Understand the different types of delusions associated with psychosis and schizophrenia. | Delusions are false beliefs that are firmly held despite evidence to the contrary. They are a common symptom of psychosis and schizophrenia. | Risk factors for developing delusions include a family history of mental illness, substance abuse, and high levels of stress. |
| 2 | Identify the delusion of control. | This delusion involves the belief that one’s thoughts, feelings, or actions are being controlled by an external force. | Risk factors for developing the delusion of control include a history of trauma or abuse, as well as certain neurological conditions. |
| 3 | Recognize the thought broadcasting delusion. | This delusion involves the belief that one’s thoughts are being broadcasted to others. | Risk factors for developing the thought broadcasting delusion include social isolation and a lack of social support. |
| 4 | Identify the referential delusion. | This delusion involves the belief that certain objects, events, or people have a special meaning or significance specifically for the individual experiencing the delusion. | Risk factors for developing the referential delusion include a history of trauma or abuse, as well as certain personality traits such as paranoia. |
| 5 | Recognize the somatic delusion. | This delusion involves the belief that one’s body is diseased, damaged, or altered in some way. | Risk factors for developing the somatic delusion include a history of physical illness or injury, as well as certain personality traits such as hypochondria. |
| 6 | Identify the erotomanic delusion. | This delusion involves the belief that someone, usually of higher social status, is in love with the individual experiencing the delusion. | Risk factors for developing the erotomanic delusion include a history of unrequited love or rejection, as well as certain personality traits such as narcissism. |
| 7 | Recognize the nihilistic delusion. | This delusion involves the belief that the world or oneself does not exist, or that the world is coming to an end. | Risk factors for developing the nihilistic delusion include a history of depression or anxiety, as well as exposure to traumatic events. |
| 8 | Identify Capgras syndrome. | This delusion involves the belief that a loved one has been replaced by an imposter. | Risk factors for developing Capgras syndrome include a history of brain injury or neurological disorders. |
| 9 | Recognize Cotard’s syndrome. | This delusion involves the belief that one is dead or does not exist. | Risk factors for developing Cotard’s syndrome include a history of depression or other mental illness, as well as exposure to traumatic events. |
| 10 | Identify Fregoli syndrome. | This delusion involves the belief that different people are actually the same person in disguise. | Risk factors for developing Fregoli syndrome include a history of brain injury or neurological disorders. |
| 11 | Recognize reduplicative paramnesia. | This delusion involves the belief that a place or location has been duplicated or relocated. | Risk factors for developing reduplicative paramnesia include a history of brain injury or neurological disorders. |
| 12 | Understand the different types of hallucinations associated with psychosis and schizophrenia. | Hallucinations are sensory experiences that are not based in reality. They are a common symptom of psychosis and schizophrenia. | Risk factors for developing hallucinations include a family history of mental illness, substance abuse, and high levels of stress. |
| 13 | Identify delusional jealousy, also known as Othello Syndrome. | This delusion involves the belief that one’s partner is unfaithful, despite evidence to the contrary. | Risk factors for developing delusional jealousy include a history of infidelity or relationship problems, as well as certain personality traits such as jealousy or possessiveness. |
| 14 | Recognize Clerambault-Kandinsky Syndrome. | This delusion involves the belief that someone, usually of higher social status, is in love with the individual experiencing the delusion. However, unlike the erotomanic delusion, the individual experiencing the delusion does not actively pursue the object of their affection. | Risk factors for developing Clerambault-Kandinsky Syndrome include a history of unrequited love or rejection, as well as certain personality traits such as narcissism. |
| 15 | Understand Folie deux. | This delusion involves the transmission of delusional beliefs from one person to another, usually in a close relationship such as a family member or romantic partner. | Risk factors for developing Folie deux include a history of mental illness or trauma, as well as a close relationship with someone experiencing delusions. |
How Do Hallucinatory Experiences Differ in Psychosis and Schizophrenia?
| Step | Action | Novel Insight | Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Understand the difference between psychosis and schizophrenia symptoms. | Psychosis is a general term for a mental state where a person loses touch with reality, while schizophrenia is a specific disorder that falls under the category of psychotic disorders. | Misdiagnosis of the disorder can lead to inappropriate treatment and worsen the symptoms. |
| 2 | Identify the type of hallucinations experienced. | Auditory hallucinations are more common in schizophrenia, while visual hallucinations are more common in psychosis. | Misdiagnosis of the type of hallucinations can lead to inappropriate treatment and worsen the symptoms. |
| 3 | Differentiate delusions and hallucinations. | Delusions are false beliefs, while hallucinations are sensory experiences that are not based on reality. | Misunderstanding the difference between delusions and hallucinations can lead to inappropriate treatment and worsen the symptoms. |
| 4 | Recognize the variations in hallucinatory content. | Hallucinations in schizophrenia are often negative and critical, while those in psychosis are often more neutral or positive. | Misunderstanding the variations in hallucinatory content can lead to inappropriate treatment and worsen the symptoms. |
| 5 | Understand the perception disturbances in psychosis. | Perception disturbances in psychosis can include changes in the perception of time, space, and body image. | Misunderstanding the perception disturbances in psychosis can lead to inappropriate treatment and worsen the symptoms. |
| 6 | Consider the frequency of hallucinations. | Hallucinations in schizophrenia tend to be more frequent and persistent, while those in psychosis tend to be more sporadic. | Misunderstanding the frequency of hallucinations can lead to inappropriate treatment and worsen the symptoms. |
| 7 | Recognize the cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. | Schizophrenia is often associated with cognitive impairment, including problems with memory, attention, and decision-making. | Misunderstanding the cognitive impairment in schizophrenia can lead to inappropriate treatment and worsen the symptoms. |
| 8 | Understand the emotional responses to hallucinations. | Emotional responses to hallucinations can vary, but in schizophrenia, they are often negative and distressing. | Misunderstanding the emotional responses to hallucinations can lead to inappropriate treatment and worsen the symptoms. |
| 9 | Consider the social isolation in schizophrenia. | Schizophrenia can lead to social isolation due to the negative symptoms and cognitive impairment associated with the disorder. | Misunderstanding the social isolation in schizophrenia can lead to inappropriate treatment and worsen the symptoms. |
| 10 | Understand the neurotransmitter imbalances in psychosis. | Psychosis is associated with imbalances in neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. | Misunderstanding the neurotransmitter imbalances in psychosis can lead to inappropriate treatment and worsen the symptoms. |
| 11 | Recognize the brain regions affected by schizophrenia. | Schizophrenia is associated with changes in brain regions such as the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. | Misunderstanding the brain regions affected by schizophrenia can lead to inappropriate treatment and worsen the symptoms. |
| 12 | Consider the treatment approaches for psychotic disorders. | Treatment for psychotic disorders often involves a combination of medication, therapy, and support services. | Misunderstanding the treatment approaches for psychotic disorders can lead to inappropriate treatment and worsen the symptoms. |
What is Disorganized Thinking and its Role in Diagnosing Psychosis vs Schizophrenia?
| Step | Action | Novel Insight | Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Assess speech abnormalities | Disorganized thinking is a hallmark symptom of psychosis and schizophrenia | Patients with a history of substance abuse or trauma may have difficulty with communication |
| 2 | Look for tangentiality and loose associations | Tangentiality refers to a lack of connection between thoughts, while loose associations involve a weak connection between thoughts | Patients with a history of neurological disorders may have difficulty with language |
| 3 | Check for incoherence and flight of ideas | Incoherence refers to speech that is difficult to understand, while flight of ideas involves rapid shifts in thought | Patients with a history of psychiatric disorders may have difficulty with communication |
| 4 | Identify word salad and derailment | Word salad refers to speech that is completely unintelligible, while derailment involves a sudden shift in topic | Patients with a history of developmental disorders may have difficulty with language |
| 5 | Look for neologisms and clang associations | Neologisms are made-up words, while clang associations involve the use of words based on sound rather than meaning | Patients with a history of cognitive impairment may have difficulty with language |
| 6 | Check for thought blocking | Thought blocking involves a sudden interruption in speech or thought | Patients with a history of anxiety or depression may have difficulty with communication |
| 7 | Consider all psychotic symptoms | Disorganized thinking is just one of many symptoms of psychosis and schizophrenia | Patients with a family history of mental illness may be at higher risk |
| 8 | Use diagnostic criteria to make a diagnosis | Disorganized thinking is one of the criteria used to diagnose schizophrenia | Patients with a history of noncompliance with treatment may be at higher risk of relapse |
Overall, disorganized thinking is an important symptom to assess when diagnosing psychosis and schizophrenia. It can manifest in a variety of ways, including tangentiality, incoherence, and derailment. It is important to consider all psychotic symptoms and use diagnostic criteria to make an accurate diagnosis. Patients with certain risk factors, such as a history of substance abuse or trauma, may have difficulty with communication and require additional assessment.
Understanding Negative Symptoms in Patients with Psychosis or Schizophrenia
| Step | Action | Novel Insight | Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Observe the patient’s behavior and communication | Negative symptoms are often harder to detect than positive symptoms | Age, gender, family history, substance abuse, stress, trauma, and social support |
| 2 | Look for signs of avolition, lack of motivation, and emotional withdrawal | Negative symptoms can be mistaken for depression or anxiety | Poor treatment adherence, poor quality of life, and increased risk of relapse |
| 3 | Assess for poverty of speech, thought disorder, and thought blocking | Negative symptoms can affect cognitive functioning | Poor social and occupational functioning, reduced quality of life, and increased caregiver burden |
| 4 | Check for flat affect, blunted affect, and unresponsiveness | Negative symptoms can lead to social isolation and withdrawn behavior | Increased risk of suicide, poor treatment outcomes, and increased healthcare costs |
| 5 | Evaluate for delusions of control and catatonia | Negative symptoms can co-occur with positive symptoms | Increased risk of violence, poor treatment adherence, and increased caregiver burden |
| 6 | Consider the impact of negative symptoms on the patient’s daily life | Negative symptoms can be disabling and affect multiple domains of functioning | Poor social and occupational functioning, reduced quality of life, and increased caregiver burden |
What Criteria Must be Met for a Schizophrenia Diagnosis to be Made?
| Step | Action | Novel Insight | Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Evaluate the presence of at least two of the following symptoms: delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, grossly disorganized behavior, or negative symptoms. | Negative symptoms refer to the absence or reduction of normal behaviors and can include lack of emotion, motivation, or pleasure in everyday activities. | Risk factors for schizophrenia include a family history of the disorder, prenatal exposure to viruses or malnutrition, and drug use during adolescence. |
| 2 | Determine the duration of symptoms, which must be present for at least six months. | The duration of symptoms is important in distinguishing schizophrenia from other psychotic disorders, such as brief psychotic disorder or schizophreniform disorder. | Risk factors for a longer duration of symptoms include a later age of onset, male gender, and a history of substance abuse. |
| 3 | Assess for social/occupational dysfunction, which can include difficulties with work, school, or relationships. | Social/occupational dysfunction is a key feature of schizophrenia and can help differentiate it from other mental health conditions. | Risk factors for social/occupational dysfunction include a lack of social support, poverty, and stigma associated with mental illness. |
| 4 | Exclude other possible causes of psychosis, such as substance-induced psychosis or a medical condition. | It is important to rule out other potential causes of psychosis before making a diagnosis of schizophrenia. | Risk factors for substance-induced psychosis include drug or alcohol abuse, while risk factors for medical conditions that can cause psychosis include brain tumors or infections. |
| 5 | Consider the presence of a catatonia specifier, which can include motor abnormalities such as immobility or excessive movement. | The catatonia specifier is a relatively uncommon feature of schizophrenia but can be present in some cases. | Risk factors for catatonia include a history of trauma or abuse, as well as certain medical conditions such as epilepsy. |
| 6 | Consider the presence of a paranoid, disorganized, catatonic, or residual subtype specifier. | These subtypes can help further characterize the presentation of schizophrenia and guide treatment decisions. | Risk factors for different subtypes of schizophrenia are not well-established, but some research suggests that the paranoid subtype may be associated with a better prognosis. |
| 7 | Exclude a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder, which involves both psychotic symptoms and mood symptoms. | Schizoaffective disorder can be difficult to distinguish from schizophrenia but requires the presence of mood symptoms for a diagnosis. | Risk factors for schizoaffective disorder are similar to those for schizophrenia, but with an added emphasis on mood disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder. |
| 8 | Consider a diagnosis of schizophreniform disorder if the criteria for schizophrenia are met but symptoms have been present for less than six months. | Schizophreniform disorder is a provisional diagnosis that can be made when symptoms of schizophrenia are present but have not yet persisted for the required duration. | Risk factors for schizophreniform disorder are similar to those for schizophrenia, but with an added emphasis on the potential for symptoms to resolve within a shorter timeframe. |
The Importance of Neurocognitive Testing in Assessing Psychotic Disorders
| Step | Action | Novel Insight | Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Conduct a neuropsychological evaluation to assess cognitive impairment and brain function. | Neuropsychological evaluation is a comprehensive assessment of cognitive abilities and brain function that can help identify specific deficits in executive functioning, memory, attention, and other areas. | Cognitive impairment can impact treatment planning and functional outcomes. |
| 2 | Use diagnostic accuracy to differentiate between psychotic disorders and other neurodevelopmental disorders. | Differential diagnosis is crucial in identifying the specific type of psychotic disorder and ruling out other conditions that may present with similar symptoms. | Misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate therapeutic interventions and poor functional outcomes. |
| 3 | Incorporate cognitive remediation therapy to address executive functioning deficits and memory impairments. | Cognitive remediation therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on improving cognitive abilities and addressing specific deficits in executive functioning, memory, and attention. | Executive functioning deficits and memory impairments can impact daily functioning and quality of life. |
| 4 | Consider the impact of attentional deficits on clinical decision-making and treatment planning. | Attentional deficits can impact the ability to process information and make informed decisions, which can impact treatment planning and therapeutic interventions. | Attentional deficits can impact functional outcomes and quality of life. |
| 5 | Monitor brain function and cognitive abilities throughout the course of treatment to assess the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions. | Regular assessments of cognitive abilities and brain function can help identify areas of improvement and adjust therapeutic interventions as needed. | Lack of monitoring can lead to ineffective therapeutic interventions and poor functional outcomes. |
Overall, neurocognitive testing is essential in assessing psychotic disorders as it can help identify specific deficits in cognitive abilities and brain function, differentiate between different types of psychotic disorders, and inform treatment planning and therapeutic interventions. By incorporating cognitive remediation therapy and monitoring brain function and cognitive abilities throughout the course of treatment, clinicians can improve functional outcomes and quality of life for individuals with psychotic disorders.
Differential Diagnosis: Differentiating Between Psychosis and Schizophrenia
| Step | Action | Novel Insight | Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Assess for hallucinations | Hallucinations are a common symptom of both psychosis and schizophrenia, but they can also occur in other disorders such as mood disorders and substance-induced psychosis | Substance abuse, medication side effects, and medical conditions can all cause hallucinations |
| 2 | Evaluate for disorganized speech | Disorganized speech is a hallmark symptom of schizophrenia, but it can also occur in other disorders such as bipolar disorder with psychotic features | Family history of schizophrenia, childhood trauma, and social isolation are all risk factors for developing schizophrenia |
| 3 | Look for negative symptoms | Negative symptoms, such as lack of motivation and social withdrawal, are more common in schizophrenia than in other psychotic disorders | Substance abuse, medication side effects, and medical conditions can all cause negative symptoms |
| 4 | Consider mood disorders | Mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder, can present with psychotic features that may be mistaken for schizophrenia | Family history of mood disorders, childhood trauma, and substance abuse are all risk factors for developing mood disorders |
| 5 | Assess for substance-induced psychosis | Substance abuse, particularly of stimulants and hallucinogens, can cause psychosis that may be mistaken for schizophrenia | Substance abuse and a history of trauma or abuse are risk factors for developing substance-induced psychosis |
| 6 | Evaluate for brief psychotic disorder | Brief psychotic disorder is a temporary form of psychosis that may be mistaken for schizophrenia, but it typically resolves within a month | Recent stress or trauma and a family history of psychotic disorders are risk factors for developing brief psychotic disorder |
| 7 | Consider other psychotic disorders | Schizophreniform disorder and schizoaffective disorder are two other psychotic disorders that may be mistaken for schizophrenia | Family history of psychotic disorders and childhood trauma are risk factors for developing these disorders |
| 8 | Rule out other medical conditions | Psychotic symptoms can be caused by medical conditions such as dementia and ADHD | Age, medical history, and medication use are all risk factors for developing medical conditions that can cause psychosis |
Antipsychotic Medication: Treatment Options for Managing Symptoms of Psychotic Disorders
| Step | Action | Novel Insight | Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Assess the patient’s symptoms and medical history. | Patients with a history of extrapyramidal symptoms or neuroleptic malignant syndrome may be at higher risk for adverse effects. | Patients may not disclose all symptoms or may have comorbid conditions that affect treatment. |
| 2 | Determine the appropriate antipsychotic medication based on the patient’s symptoms and medical history. | Atypical antipsychotics, also known as second-generation antipsychotics, may be preferred due to lower risk of extrapyramidal symptoms and tardive dyskinesia. | Some patients may not respond to certain medications or may have contraindications for certain medications. |
| 3 | Monitor for positive and negative symptoms, as well as cognitive impairment. | Cognitive impairment may be a side effect of antipsychotic medication and may require additional treatment. | Patients may not report all symptoms or may have difficulty communicating their symptoms. |
| 4 | Consider depot injections for patients who have difficulty adhering to oral medication regimens. | Depot injections may improve medication adherence and reduce relapse rates. | Depot injections may have a higher risk of adverse effects and may not be appropriate for all patients. |
| 5 | Monitor for clozapine-induced agranulocytosis in patients taking clozapine. | Clozapine is associated with a risk of agranulocytosis, which can be fatal. | Patients taking clozapine require regular blood monitoring. |
| 6 | Consider mood stabilizers for patients with comorbid mood disorders. | Mood stabilizers may improve overall symptom management and reduce the risk of relapse. | Mood stabilizers may have their own side effects and may not be appropriate for all patients. |
| 7 | Consider electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) or psychosocial interventions for patients who do not respond to medication alone. | ECT and psychosocial interventions may improve overall symptom management and quality of life. | ECT and psychosocial interventions may have their own risks and may not be appropriate for all patients. |
| 8 | Consider combination therapy for patients who do not respond to monotherapy. | Combination therapy may improve overall symptom management and reduce the risk of relapse. | Combination therapy may have its own risks and may not be appropriate for all patients. |
Psychotherapy as an Adjunctive Treatment for Patients with Psychosis or Schizophrenia
| Step | Action | Novel Insight | Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Assess the patient’s needs and preferences | Patients with psychosis or schizophrenia may have difficulty expressing their needs and preferences, so it is important to use open-ended questions and active listening skills to gather information | Patients may be resistant to sharing personal information due to paranoia or mistrust |
| 2 | Choose an appropriate psychotherapy approach | Cognitive behavioral therapy, family-focused therapy, and interpersonal psychotherapy have been shown to be effective for patients with psychosis or schizophrenia | Some patients may not respond well to certain approaches, so it is important to be flexible and willing to adjust the treatment plan |
| 3 | Consider group therapy sessions | Group therapy can provide social support and a sense of community for patients, which can be especially important for those with limited social networks | Patients may feel uncomfortable sharing personal information in a group setting |
| 4 | Incorporate mindfulness-based interventions | Mindfulness-based interventions can help patients manage stress and improve their overall well-being | Patients may have difficulty focusing or may find mindfulness exercises too challenging |
| 5 | Use motivational interviewing techniques | Motivational interviewing can help patients identify their goals and increase their motivation to make positive changes | Patients may be resistant to change or may feel overwhelmed by the prospect of making changes |
| 6 | Consider trauma-focused therapies | Patients with a history of trauma may benefit from trauma-focused therapies, such as cognitive processing therapy or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing | Patients may experience distress or discomfort when discussing traumatic events |
| 7 | Use crisis intervention strategies as needed | Patients with psychosis or schizophrenia may experience crises, such as suicidal ideation or hallucinations, and it is important to have a plan in place to address these situations | Patients may be at risk of harm to themselves or others during a crisis |
| 8 | Monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed | Regular check-ins and assessments can help ensure that the treatment plan is effective and appropriate for the patient’s needs | Patients may experience setbacks or may not respond well to certain interventions, so it is important to be flexible and willing to adjust the treatment plan as needed |
Common Mistakes And Misconceptions
| Mistake/Misconception | Correct Viewpoint |
|---|---|
| Psychosis and schizophrenia are the same thing. | Psychosis is a symptom that can occur in various mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, but they are not interchangeable terms. Schizophrenia is a specific disorder characterized by symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking and behavior, and negative symptoms like apathy or lack of emotion. |
| All people with psychosis have schizophrenia. | As mentioned above, psychosis can be present in different mental health disorders such as bipolar disorder or major depressive disorder with psychotic features. It’s important to assess for other symptoms and criteria to determine if someone has schizophrenia specifically. |
| Schizophrenia always involves hearing voices or seeing things that aren’t there (hallucinations). | While hallucinations are common in schizophrenia (especially auditory ones), they are not necessary for diagnosis. Other symptoms like delusions or disorganized speech/thinking may also be present without any perceptual disturbances. |
| People with schizophrenia cannot recover or lead fulfilling lives. | With proper treatment (medication management, therapy/support groups) many individuals with schizophrenia can manage their symptoms effectively enough to live independently and pursue meaningful activities/jobs/relationships/etc.. Recovery looks different for everyone but it is possible! |
| Neurocognitive assessments alone can diagnose either condition definitively. | While neurocognitive testing may provide valuable information about cognitive functioning deficits associated with these conditions (such as working memory impairment), it should only be used alongside clinical interviews/symptom assessment tools to make an accurate diagnosis of either condition. |