Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental health disorder that affects a person's thinking, emotions, behavior, and perception of reality. It often involves episodes of psychosis, including hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. While it is a complex condition, effective treatments can help individuals lead fulfilling lives.

Key Symptoms of Schizophrenia

Positive Symptoms

  • Hallucinations: Hearing, seeing, or feeling things that are not present (e.g., auditory hallucinations like hearing voices).

  • Delusions: Strongly held false beliefs (e.g., believing one is being followed or having special powers).

  • Disorganized Thinking: Difficulty organizing thoughts, often reflected in incoherent speech.

  • Movement Disorders: Agitated or repetitive movements, or catatonia (lack of movement or response).

Negative Symptoms

  • Lack of motivation or interest (avolition)

  • Social withdrawal or isolation

  • Reduced emotional expression (flat affect)

  • Decreased ability to experience pleasure (anhedonia)

Cognitive Symptoms

  • Difficulty with attention or concentration

  • Impaired memory or problem-solving skills

  • Trouble understanding or using information

Treatment

  • Medication

  • Psychotherapy

  • Rehabilitation Programs

  • Hospitalization

  • Lifestyle and Self-Help