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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.

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