Schizophrenia is a serious but treatable brain disorder. It distorts the senses,
affecting a person’s ability to know the difference between what is reality
and what isn’t.
The exact cause of schizophrenia is unknown, but it’s thought to be caused
by a chemical imbalance in the brain. Schizophrenia may develop slowly and go
unnoticed for a long time, or it may begin very suddenly and develop quickly.
The illness can strike anyone at any time, but it most commonly presents between
the ages of 15 and 25. It affects one in every 100 people.
What are the symptoms of schizophrenia?
The symptoms of schizophrenia can be different for each person, and may include:
- delusions – beliefs that aren’t based in reality
- hallucinations – seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting or feeling
things that aren’t really there
- thought disorders – problems with processing and organizing
thoughts
- lack of motivation – little energy or interest in life
- blunted feelings – being unable to feel or show emotion.
What are the early warning signs of schizophrenia?
People with schizophrenia may show early warning signs long before the first
psychotic episode. They may have symptoms like hallucinations or delusions.
The signs may be difficult to read because they can be confused with regular
adolescent behaviour. These early warning signs can include:
- social withdrawal, isolation and suspiciousness of others
- not keeping up with personal hygiene
- a flat, expressionless gaze
- an inability to express happiness
- inability to cry, or excessive crying
- inappropriate laughter
- a sudden shift in personality
- excessive fatigue and sleepiness, or an inability to sleep
at night.
For more information on the early warning signs of schizophrenia, you can download
this early
intervention resource kit.
How is schizophrenia treated?
People with schizophrenia are treated with a combination of medication and
psychosocial and community supports, which can include psychotherapy, counseling,
support groups, volunteer or work programs and supportive housing programs.
Hospitals or mental health services may offer support groups, life skills training
and activities, as well as outpatient help with accessing government support
services or housing programs.
Treatment plans almost always include taking antipsychotic
medication over a long period of time, because the vulnerability to psychosis
doesn’t go away, even though the illness is under control. Please talk to your
doctor for more information on schizophrenia medications.
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