Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder that affects a person’s thinking, emotions, and behavior. It often involves hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and impaired social functioning.
1. Causes & Risk Factors
The exact cause is unknown, but factors include:
- Genetics – Family history increases risk.
- Brain Chemistry & Structure – Imbalances in neurotransmitters (dopamine, glutamate) and structural abnormalities.
- Environmental Triggers – Stress, trauma, substance abuse, or viral infections during pregnancy.
- Substance Use – Cannabis and psychostimulants can trigger or worsen symptoms.
2. Symptoms
Symptoms typically emerge in the late teens to early 30s and fall into three categories:
A. Positive Symptoms (Excesses in Behavior)
- Hallucinations – Seeing, hearing, or feeling things that aren’t real (e.g., hearing voices).
- Delusions – Strong false beliefs (e.g., thinking one has superpowers or is being watched).
- Disorganized Thinking & Speech – Jumping between topics, incoherent speech.
- Abnormal Motor Behavior – Agitation, repetitive movements, or catatonia (lack of movement or response).
B. Negative Symptoms (Reduced Normal Functioning)
- Lack of motivation or emotion.
- Social withdrawal.
- Reduced speech (alogia).
- Inability to feel pleasure (anhedonia).
C. Cognitive Symptoms
- Poor concentration and memory.
- Difficulty making decisions.
- Trouble processing information.
3. Treatment Options
While schizophrenia is a lifelong condition, treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
A. Medications (Antipsychotics)
- First-Generation (Typical) Antipsychotics – E.g., Haloperidol, Chlorpromazine. May cause movement disorders (tremors, rigidity).
- Second-Generation (Atypical) Antipsychotics – E.g., Risperidone, Olanzapine, Clozapine (for treatment-resistant cases). Fewer movement side effects but may cause weight gain and diabetes.
B. Psychotherapy & Support
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps manage delusions and improve thinking patterns.
- Social Skills Training – Helps patients with communication and daily living.
- Family Therapy – Educates families to support the patient.
- Vocational Rehabilitation – Helps with employment and social reintegration.
C. Hospitalization & Crisis Management
- Needed if the patient poses a danger to themselves or others.
- Involves stabilization through medication and therapy.
D. Lifestyle & Supportive Care
- Regular sleep and a structured daily routine.
- Avoiding substance abuse (alcohol, drugs).
- Community support groups and long-term care programs.
4. Prognosis & Long-Term Outlook
- Early diagnosis and consistent treatment improve outcomes.
- Some individuals can lead functional lives with medication and therapy.
- Relapse is common if treatment is stopped, so lifelong management is crucial.