A viral video simulating the experience of schizophrenia has sparked widespread attention and debate online. Created by TikTok user Xorad, who lives with the condition, the video attempts to replicate the visual and auditory hallucinations that many individuals with schizophrenia experience. The aim is to foster empathy and understanding of a mental health condition that is often misunderstood and stigmatised.
Schizophrenia is a complex mental illness often categorised as a psychosis, where the affected individual’s perception of reality becomes distorted. Symptoms vary but can include delusions, disorganised thinking, emotional detachment, and a tendency to withdraw socially. Hallucinations—both visual and auditory—are among the most commonly recognised symptoms.
Xorad’s video, which quickly went viral on TikTok, features everyday settings such as beaches and forests, overlaid with swirling visual distortions that resemble transparent faces and lines. The audio track is a chaotic blend of whispers, murmurs, and overlapping voices, designed to reflect the intrusive nature of auditory hallucinations.
The video received widespread praise for its authenticity and emotional impact, though it also prompted discussions about its accuracy. Reddit became a forum for individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia to share their reactions. One user noted that while the auditory hallucinations in the video were somewhat exaggerated, they still resonated with her experiences of hearing distinct, realistic voices with complex narratives. Another user found the visual elements closely mirrored his own hallucinations, including cartoon-like faces and flashes of light.
However, not all feedback was uniform. Some individuals noted differences in their symptoms, highlighting the deeply personal and varied nature of the condition. One particularly striking comment came from a user who had assumed that the visual distortions were a normal part of everyone’s perception, underscoring how schizophrenia can alter one’s sense of what is real.
Ultimately, while Xorad’s video may not represent every individual’s experience, it has opened an important dialogue about mental health. By offering a personal glimpse into the world of someone with schizophrenia, the video challenges stigma and encourages empathy. Experts and viewers alike agree that such authentic portrayals can play a vital role in educating the public and humanising a condition often misrepresented in popular culture.
