### The Link Between Schizophrenia and Alcohol Misuse People with schizophrenia face many challenges, including diagnosis, treatment adherence, and living with the illness. Schizophrenia increases the likelihood of misusing drugs and alcohol. Scientists believe this is due to genetic factors, shared brain pathway changes, or as a coping mechanism for symptoms and medication side effects. Research shows that psychoactive substances like alcohol can trigger psychosis, especially in young people at higher risk of schizophrenia. Alcohol affects the brain's reward systems, and changes in this area are linked to schizophrenia. Long-term alcohol misuse can cause psychotic symptoms like hallucinations, mimicking or triggering schizophrenia symptoms. People with schizophrenia are more vulnerable to substance abuse. Studies show that 47% have problems with drugs or alcohol, compared to 16% of those without the condition. This group is three times more likely to drink alcohol, the second most common psychoactive substance they use. Experts suggest several reasons for this. A family history of schizophrenia or alcohol misuse increases the likelihood of both conditions. Some people misuse alcohol to ease psychosis symptoms or medication side effects. However, alcohol misuse can worsen schizophrenia symptoms. Schizophrenia patients often experience a “downward social drift,” leading to homelessness, isolation, or legal issues, increasing the need for emergency services. Substance abuse worsens health outcomes and increases relapse rates due to poor treatment adherence. Long-term alcohol misuse and mental illness are lifelong conditions, like high blood pressure or diabetes. Early intervention and treatment are crucial. During the COVID-19 pandemic, isolation and missed checkups make getting help even more important. Contacting a family doctor for treatment options or referrals to mental health professionals is the first step. Treating both schizophrenia and alcohol misuse simultaneously is essential. Dual-focused treatment reduces relapse risk, improves quality of life, and increases medication adherence. Treatment may include individual or group therapy and prescription medication. If seeing a doctor is not possible, talking to family and friends for support is important.