What is schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a mental health problem in which you might hear voices that aren’t there. You may think other people are trying to hurt you or not make sense when you speak. People with schizophrenia often have problems with interpersonal relationships, taking care of themselves, or holding down a job. Treatment can help you or a loved one thrive in their environment.
What are the symptoms of schizophrenia?
Common symptoms of schizophrenia, which typically starts between age 16 and 30, include:
- Hallucinations
- Seeing or hearing things that aren’t there
- Delusions or hearing voices
- Difficulty organizing thoughts
- Depression or social withdrawal
- Problems making decisions or paying attention
- False beliefs that don’t match reality
- Disorganized speech
- Abnormal motor behavior
- Extreme disorganization
- inability to function properly
- Poor personal hygiene
- No eye contact or facial expressions
Complications associated with schizophrenia include suicide, anxiety disorders, depression, alcohol misuse, nicotine or drug use, social problems, homelessness, and being victimized, as well as the inability to hold a job, attend school, or financially support yourself.
What are the risk factors for schizophrenia?
The cause of schizophrenia isn’t clear, but your environment, genes, and brain chemistry may play a role in its development. Risk factors include:
- Genetics
- Family history of schizophrenia
- Pregnancy or birth complications
- Toxin exposure during pregnancy
- Taking mind-altering drugs
Seeking treatment at the first sign of schizophrenia can maximize the quality of life for you or a loved one and prevent serious psychosocial complications.
How is schizophrenia diagnosed?
Dr. Zafar and her team diagnose schizophrenia after reviewing your medical history and symptoms. She performs a physical exam, reviews your family history for mental health disorders, and completes a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. Dr. Zafar might recommend drug or alcohol screenings, MRIs, CT scans, or other forms of diagnostic testing.
How is schizophrenia treated?
To treat schizophrenia, the Axis Psychiatry team might recommend one or more of the following:
Oral medications
Taking certain medications helps control schizophrenia symptoms. Dr. Zafar works with you to find a medication regimen that’s right for you.
Injections
Some antipsychotic medicines are available as injections. Dr. Zafar might recommend them every two to four weeks to reduce unpleasant symptoms.
Psychotherapy
The Axis Psychiatry team takes a biopsychosocial, interdisciplinary approach to schizophrenia treatment, examining the connection between psychology, biology, and social aspects of the disease. They offer individual therapy, family therapy, and social skills training.
Outreach referrals
If you or a loved one require daily living support, the Axis Psychiatry team can refer out to community mental health programs that provide self-help groups, housing, and employment assistance.
Don’t let you or a loved one have untreated schizophrenia. Schedule an appointment with Axis Psychiatry over the phone or online today.
