[RedEagle]

I know I have social anxiety disorder but I also have a lot of trouble communicating (making sense) both verbally and in writing and I sometimes see illusions as well when under stress. Is it schizophrenia?

I've been on several anti-depressants including most recently Venlaxafine (Effexor). It gave me insomnia, increased anxiety, excessive yawning and depersonalization. I've also taken Valium but haven't noticed much effect other than I sleep better.

[pegasus]

Hello RedEagle,

Can't diagnose on the internet but I can give you some ideas though it really is best to check with your psychiatrist/doctor.

Anxiety is fear and can make us imagine all sorts of things, hear things that aren't there and see things too if we are hypervigilant. Anxiety can also make us feel unreal and unable to concentrate. More about anxiety here >>> Anxiety, Panic and Phobia Center - Psych Central

Hallucinations can be caused by all sorts of things and it does not necessarily mean it is schizophrenia. Psychosis is extreme distress and can be caused by stress. Psychosis can be part of severe depression, bipolar, PTSD or schizophrenia.

The main thing is to get the right combination of medication for your anxiety and have psychotherapy to learn coping strategies to keep the stress to a minimum. If you know what triggers these symptoms, you are more able to deal with it.

Here are some online tests you can take to give you a better idea of what is going on but also consult with your doctor if your symptoms are getting worse. The Sanity Score - Test Your Mental Wellness and Psychological Tests and Quizzes