Schizophrenia

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a condition affecting the way you feel, think, and behave. It’s often characterized by hallucinations (hearing or seeing things that aren’t there) and delusions (beliefs not based in reality). 

Schizophrenia affects about 1 in 300 people globally. Left untreated, it can cause problems functioning during routine daily activities. 

Which symptoms can schizophrenia cause?

Schizophrenia can cause the following symptoms:

• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Disorganized behavior, speech, and/or thinking 
• Difficulty staying on topic when speaking
• Unusual behavior patterns
• Repetitive motions
• Showing little or no emotion
• Lack of interest in social activities
• Being paranoid, suspicious, or scared
• Lack of interest in physical appearance and hygiene
• Speaking in a monotone voice
• Lack of motivation
• Trouble sleeping
• Irritability 

People with schizophrenia may experience higher rates of anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, and/or substance misuse. 

What are the risk factors for schizophrenia?

The cause of schizophrenia is unclear, but its risk factors may include:

• Brain chemical imbalances
• Problems with brain development before birth
• Family history of schizophrenia
• Malnutrition before birth
• Substance misuse
• Living in poverty, danger, or stress
• Low birth weight
• Toxin or virus exposure before birth

While you can’t necessarily prevent schizophrenia, adopting healthy habits and sticking to a treatment plan helps minimize symptoms. 

How is schizophrenia diagnosed?

Demetria diagnoses schizophrenia by completing a mental health evaluation in person or virtually. She assesses your symptoms, mental health history, moods, emotions, behaviors, and thoughts using DSM-5 criteria. 

She also reviews your current medications and determines if you’re a candidate for brain activity testing, lab work, or brain imaging procedures. 

How is schizophrenia treated?

Treating schizophrenia at Aspire Behavioral Health LLC may consist of making healthy lifestyle adjustments, taking medications, and undergoing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family therapy, or other forms of therapy. You may also receive a referral for supportive services to assist with work or school if necessary. 

Follow up with Demetria for therapy and medication management to ensure your or your loved one’s treatment is effective. 

It’s also helpful to establish a routine, eat a balanced diet, stay active, get enough sleep, and minimize stress. Avoid smoking, drugs, and alcohol, and maintain a strong social support network. 

Schedule a schizophrenia evaluation with Demetria at Aspire Behavioral Health LLC by calling the office or booking an in-person or telehealth appointment online today.