Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness that can be disabling. Currently, about 1% of Americans have it. Schizophrenics may hear voices, see imaginary sights, or believe other people control their thoughts. These sensations can lead to erratic behavior. Although there is no cure, drug and counseling treatments can oftentimes manage the most serious symptoms.
Schizophrenia: Symptoms
The symptoms are severe, affect quality of life, and in some cases the schizophrenic can be harmful to himself and to others. Some of the symptoms include:
- Hallucinations: hearing or seeing imaginary things
- Delusions: strongly held false beliefs
- Catatonia: a condition in which the person becomes physically fixed in a single position for a very long time.
Some signs, such as lack of enjoyment in everyday life and withdrawal from social activities, may mimic depression.
Organizing thoughts is difficult, if not impossible. Their mind jumps from one unrelated thought to another.
The disease has a major impact in many ways. They talk but make no sense, or they make up words. Many have trouble keeping themselves and/or their homes clean. There is repetitive behaviors such as pacing, hand washing, and facial or body ticks.
Schizophrenia: Who Is Susceptible?
It strikes men and women. Symptoms usually start between ages 16 and 30. Early symptoms may present weeks, months or even years before the first incident of full psychosis. It tends to begin earlier in men than in women. Schizophrenia rarely starts during childhood or after age 45. Genetics is an important factor as psychotic disorders in the family may be more likely to transfer to the offspring.
Causes
The exact causes are unknown. A person’s genes, experiences, and environment may all be involved. Scientists believe that brain chemicals such as dopamine and glutamate may be involved as well as structural deficiencies in certain critical brain structures.
Schizophrenia: Diagnosis
Schizophrenia is very difficult to diagnose. There are no lab tests so doctors usually look at a person’s history and symptoms. First, it’s important to rule out other medical causes. In teens, a combination of family history and certain behaviors can help predict the start of schizophrenia. Some behaviors include withdrawing from social groups, paranoia, and hallucinations.
Medicines That Treat It
Prescription drugs can reduce symptoms such as abnormal thinking, hallucinations, and delusions. There are side effects such as tremors and gaining considerable weight. Drugs may also interfere with other medicines or supplements. But, side effects notwithstanding, medication is a must to treat schizophrenia.
Therapy Can Help
Counseling can help people develop better ways to recognize and handle their problem behaviors and thoughts, and improve how they relate to others. The earlier treatment is sought, the better the outcome. In cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), people learn to test the reality of their thoughts and better manage symptoms. Other forms of therapy try to improve self-care, communication, and relationship skills.
Staying on the Plan
People with schizophrenia sometimes quit their medications because of side effects or thinking they’re healthy and don’t need it. This increases the risk of serious symptoms returning, which can lead to a serious psychotic episode. Regular counseling can help people stick with their treatment and avoid a relapse or the need for hospitalization.
Alcohol, Drugs Are a Risk
People with schizophrenia are much more likely than other people to abuse alcohol or illicit drugs. Some substances, including marijuana and cocaine, can make symptoms worse. Drug abuse also interferes with treatments for schizophrenia. If you know someone who’s dealing with that, look for substance abuse programs designed for people with schizophrenia.
When It’s a Relative
It can be hard to convince someone with schizophrenia to get help. Treatment often begins when a psychotic episode results in a hospital stay. Once the person is stabilized, family members can do these things to help prevent a relapse:
- Encourage the person to stay on medication
- Go with them to their follow-up appointments
- Be supportive and respectful
- Monitor them closely.
Where to Learn More
To learn more about schizophrenia, contact the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). NAMI can put you in touch with local support groups for patients and their families.
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