Yes, it is possible to have schizophrenia without experiencing prominent auditory or visual hallucinations. Schizophrenia is a complex mental disorder that involves a range of symptoms, and hallucinations (hearing voices or seeing things that are not present) are just one of the many possible features of the illness.
The diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia, according to the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition), require the presence of at least two of the following symptoms during a significant portion of one month or more:
Delusions: False beliefs that are not based on reality and are not typically accepted by others within the person's culture or community.
Hallucinations: Perceiving things that are not actually there. Auditory hallucinations (hearing voices) are the most common, but visual, olfactory (smell), gustatory (taste), and tactile (touch) hallucinations can also occur.
Disorganized thinking (speech): Exhibiting incoherent or disorganized speech patterns, making it difficult for others to understand the person's thoughts.
Grossly disorganized or abnormal motor behavior: Displaying behaviors that are unusual, unpredictable, or not suitable for the situation.
Negative symptoms: Reduced emotional expression, diminished motivation, social withdrawal, and a decline in overall functioning.
The presence of at least one of the first three symptoms (delusions, hallucinations, or disorganized thinking) is necessary for a diagnosis of schizophrenia. However, the absence of hallucinations does not exclude the possibility of schizophrenia. Some individuals with schizophrenia may primarily experience delusions or disorganized thinking, while others may present predominantly with negative symptoms.
Schizophrenia is a heterogeneous disorder, and the symptoms can vary widely from person to person. The presence and severity of symptoms can change over time, and the condition can be challenging to diagnose accurately. If you or someone you know is experiencing distressing or disruptive mental health symptoms, it's crucial to seek professional evaluation and support from a qualified mental health professional for a comprehensive assessment and appropriate treatment. Early intervention and treatment can lead to better outcomes for individuals living with schizophrenia.