Schizophrenia

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a mental health disorder that affects how people interpret the world around them. It causes symptoms that make it look as though people have lost touch with reality. However, these symptoms are very difficult for the person experiencing schizophrenia and those around them. 

Symptoms make it challenging for people to manage daily responsibilities. Fortunately, schizophrenia treatment can help you improve your condition and live an independent life. 

What causes schizophrenia?

Scientists have identified different genes that may put someone at a higher risk of developing schizophrenia. They believe that a combination of genetics and environmental factors may lead to schizophrenia.

There’s also some body of evidence that suggests variations in brain structure and function may trigger an onset of the brain disorder. 

What are the symptoms of schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia symptoms depend on the type, severity, and frequency. However, the symptoms make it hard for people to distinguish between imagination and reality.

Symptoms of schizophrenia fall into the following categories:

Negative symptoms

Negative symptoms include difficulty feeling pleasure, a loss of motivation, social withdrawal, and a disinterest in daily activities.

Psychotic symptoms

Hallucinations, delusions, and illogical thinking are some of the psychotic symptoms that occur in people with schizophrenia. 

Cognitive symptoms

Cognitive symptoms cause problems with memory, information processing, and attention.  

How is schizophrenia treated?

At the offices of Marc DeLuca, MD, schizophrenia treatment focuses on improving your symptoms and quality of life. The team customizes treatment plans to address individual needs. They can also provide family support to help your loved ones better understand and help you with managing the condition. 

Your treatment plan may include antipsychotics, which are often used to treat people with schizophrenia symptoms. These medications may be available in the form of a pill, injection, or liquid. 

Therapy may also benefit your condition. The team uses various tools and strategies to help you manage schizophrenia symptoms that affect your daily life. This may include techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and lifestyle recommendations. 

The team can also provide your family and friends with schizophrenia education to teach them ways to support you with this challenging condition. 

For comprehensive and empathetic schizophrenia care, call Mark DeLuca, MD, or schedule an appointment online today.