Home  >>  Mental Health  >>  Schizophrenia facts and treatment

Schizophrenia facts and treatment

Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder characterized by hallucinations, delusions, odd behavior, disorganized speech and withdrawal from society (social isolation). Research reveals that Schizophrenia develops during the age of 16 to 25. Most often Schizophrenia is misunderstood with “Split Personality” which is entirely different. It is found that 1 outta every 100 Americans (adults) are affected by this serious mental disorder (nearly 2.2 million).

Persons affected by Schizophrenia do not realize it. Hence consultation with a doctor is done thru their family members, friends etc. Although there is no lab test to perfectly diagnose the illness, the doctor will be able to analyze it thru self-reported experiences, behavior report and other info from family members, friends etc - combined with clinical assessment (list of criteria that needs to be met).

Although the exact cause of Schizophrenia is unknown, it is believed that genetic factors, life stress, trauma etc may lead to Schizophrenia. Drugs like LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide), Cannabis or amphetamines may lead to brain disturbance but may not be the direct contributor for Schizophrenia unless the drug user has history of mental health problems. Researches or Studies are still ongoing to find the exact causes of Schizophrenia.

At present there is no proven cure for Schizophrenia we do have treatment to control it. Anti-Psychotic medication is mainly used in treating Schizophrenia. The use of anti-psychotic medication may lead to weight gain, drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision and obesity etc. Individual Psychotherapy sessions, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Treatment), Family therapy etc. are also useful in treating Schizophrenia.