hi rachel,

welcome to the forums.

it sounds like you could have schizophrenia, from what you described, but you'll have to see a psychiatrist to get an actual diagnosis.

You'd also have to get medical causes ruled out. Such things like, thyroid problems, brain tumors, epilepsy, etc. can cause symptoms that look like schizophrenia.

Also, other mental conditions can cause hallucinations and such, like bipolar disorder and psychotic depression.

there's also the possibility of schizoaffective disorder, which is basically schizophrenia combined with depression or bipolar symptoms.

i hope you find lots of good information and support on this forum.

btw, my name is Becka. I'm 18. I was diagnosed with Schiz a little over a year ago. I've been having symptoms all my life--hearing voices, seeing things ( i also see shadows), paranoia, delusions, unorganized thoughts, etc.

-Becka