Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a serious and challenging mental illness that affects more than two million Americans today. Although it is often feared and misunderstood, schizophrenia is a treatable medical condition.

Schizophrenia is a mental illness that interferes with a person’s ability to think clearly, manage emotions, make decisions and relate to others. Most people living with schizophrenia have hallucinations and delusions.

Symptoms of Schizophrenia:

Symptoms often vary from person to person and episodes can range from extremely severe to very mild. Some characteristic symptoms of schizophrenia include:

Sudden personality change
Hallucinations
Delusions
Loss of motivation and disorganized thinking
Lack of emotion
Lack of energy
Paranoia, fear
Withdrawal from family and friends
Disregard for personal appearance
Problems with memory, attention and the ability to plan and make decisions
Flat or inappropriate emotions

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Even though schizophrenia is a lifelong disease, treatment and recovery are possible through various targeted approaches including the use of medication and support services.

Medications are the cornerstone of symptom management but are not themselves sufficient to promote recovery. Rehabilitation strategies including work, school, and relationship goals are also essential and need to be addressed in creating a plan of care.

Family and friends can have an important role in helping a loved one with schizophrenia stay on track with their medicine. Training programs that teach family and friends problem-solving and communication skills can improve relationships and lessen the chance of relapse.

If you suspect that you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms associated with a depressive disorder, reach out to your health care provider.

Credit: Frontier Behavioral Health. Used with permission.