Schizophrenia is a psychiatric disorder that affects roughly 3.5 million people in the United States and is also one of the leading causes of disability. It is marked by a disruption in thought processes, perceptions, emotional responsiveness, and social interactions. Schizophrenia can cause a combination of hallucinations, delusions, and disorder thinking, and lack of motivation. However, with mental health services for schizophrenia, you will be able to treat most symptoms of schizophrenia.
What is Schizophrenia?
It is a chronic, severe mental illness that affects the way a person thinks, behaves, feels, and perceives reality. If left untreated, the symptoms of this mental illness can be persistent and disabling.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Schizophrenia?
Symptoms of schizophrenia are usually diagnosed in the late teen years to the late twenties. The signs and symptoms may vary, but here are some of the common signs:
- Delusions
Delusions are quite common for people with schizophrenia. It is the belief that something is happening, while in reality, it isn’t. The lines of reality can often get very blurry.
- Hallucinations
Hallucinations typically involve seeing or hearing something that does not exist. For the person with the symptoms, the hallucinations are real.
- Abnormal Behavior
This behavior can show up in several different ways. The person might feel sad, empty, worthless, or other symptoms of depression.
- Disorganized Thinking
For a few, their communication becomes weakened because of their irregular thinking patterns.
- Negative Symptoms
This refers to not being able to function normally, such as avoiding personal hygiene or appearing to lack emotion. The person with schizophrenia may also withdraw from social situations and not experience physical pleasure.
The type and severity of symptoms can vary and change over time. Quite often, the symptoms go into remission for a while and then return with increased intensity.
Let’s take a look at some of the common myths about Schizophrenia:
- People with schizophrenia have multiple personalities.
- Schizophrenia makes people dangerous.
- Schizophrenia only includes hallucinations and delusions.
- Schizophrenia cannot be treated.
Treatment for Schizophrenia
Fortunately, you can get schizophrenia help out there. Every individual is different, so it is essential to consult with medical professionals to get an accurate evaluation and customized treatment for the mental disorder.
Some of the treatment options include antipsychotic medications, cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT), education, group therapy, and individual or supportive psychotherapy, which help improve the function of the patients.
All of these treatments can work alone or alongside one another to develop a well-rounded, personalized plan to address specific requirements and manage stress.
Helping someone who may have Schizophrenia
If you suspect your loved one may be experiencing symptoms of schizophrenia, talk to them about your concerns. Although you should not force someone to seek professional assistance, you can offer support and encouragement and help your loved one find the best mental health services for schizophrenia.
Register at our Community Support Program in Washington or Book Online Counseling programs for schizophrenia.