Schizophrenia: Different Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Methods

Schizophrenia: Different Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Methods

Schizophrenia is a potentially debilitating condition that can affect one emotionally, mentally, and physically. The condition has been the topic of many conversations, studies, as well as on the minds of those suffering from the condition, and those who know someone suffering from schizophrenia. One of the most debilitating conditions, schizophrenia is comprised of 1% of the US population, yet is one of the most costly conditions in the United States (Velligan, Alphs 24). Schizophrenia, a mental disorder that is often misunderstood, has a wide range of symptoms, causes, and includes different forms of treatment depending on the individual.

Schizophrenia has a number of different signs and symptoms varying from person-to-person. In order to be diagnosed with the condition, you must have at least two or more positive, negative, or disorganized symptoms (Durand, Barlow 474). The most well known symptoms of schizophrenia are often portrayed in the media when highlighting the condition; these are known positive symptoms. Positive symptoms are considered thoughts or perceptions that are too bizarre to be classified as normal thoughts by the general public (Comer 426). One positive symptom is delusions – delusions occur when someone has a deeply rooted belief in something that is not true, or most members of society would believe the belief to be a misrepresentation of reality (Durand, Barlow 474). This is not of much assurance to those suffering from delusions, as people with schizophrenia honestly believe that their false perceptions are in fact true (Comer 427). Delusions of persecution are especially common. These delusions often lead schizophrenics to believe that ...

... middle of paper ...

... coping methods to deal with the symptoms of schizophrenia. CBT therapists try to educate, challenge, and find coping techniques to deal with hallucinations (Comer 460-461). Unfortunately, the risk of relapse among those with schizophrenia high. It is very important for those suffering to stick to a treatment regiment, as going off medication is a surefire way to trigger a psychotic episode. Even in patients who have been using medication in the long-term and suddenly stop are at risk for a psychotic relapse (Emsley, et al. 1-3).

Schizophrenia is a lifelong chronic condition that can worsen every aspect of a person’s life if they do not receive proper treatment. With more education on schizophrenia, and available resources for treating the condition, more people will be aware of the signs and symptoms to help themselves and loved ones from this arduous condition.