People with schizophrenia experience auditory hallucinations, which are perceptions of sounds or voices that are not actually present in the external environment. The nature and control of these voices can vary among individuals and at different stages of the illness.
In schizophrenia, it's important to understand that the voices perceived are creations of the person's own mind, and they are not external entities speaking to them. These voices can take on various forms, ranging from benign or neutral to critical, commanding, or even persecutory in nature.
The degree of control a person has over these voices can differ. In some cases, individuals with schizophrenia may feel like the voices are intrusive and beyond their control, much like someone else is speaking to them out of the blue, as you mentioned. They may not be able to predict when the voices will start or stop, and the content of the voices may be unpredictable or distressing.
On the other hand, some individuals with schizophrenia may report a degree of influence or interaction with the voices. For example, they might feel that they can converse with the voices or negotiate with them. In certain situations, a person might be able to distract themselves from the voices or find coping mechanisms to reduce their impact.
It's essential to remember that schizophrenia is a complex and heterogeneous condition, and individuals can have diverse experiences with their symptoms. Treatment approaches often aim to help individuals manage and reduce the impact of hallucinations and other symptoms, but it may not eliminate them entirely for everyone.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms like auditory hallucinations or other mental health concerns, it's crucial to seek help from a qualified mental health professional who can provide a proper assessment and develop an appropriate treatment plan.