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Schizophrenia



Estimated Reading Time: 2 min



By: Leeanne Lawrence - April 24, 2022

“I have schizophrenia. I am not schizophrenia. I am not my mental illness. My illness is a part of me.”
– Jonathan Harnisch



What it is



Schizophrenia is a long-term condition that impacts the way people perceive reality. The brains of those with the disorder shift between what is real, and their altered view of what is real.


People are typically diagnosed between their late teens and early 30s, with signs and symptoms tending to appear earlier for males.


Though much research has been conducted about it, the cause of onset remains unknown. Among experts, it is believed that various factors are involved, including brain chemistry, and genetics.



Signs and symptoms



Although everyone displays different signs, early indicators may include (but are not limited to):


  • Suspect, they are always being watched and seeing or hearing things that are actually not there;
  • Negative changes in personality, school/work performance, sleep, appearance, and hygiene;
  • Withdrawing from social interactions and feeling indifferent toward serious events;
  • Responding to family and friends in an angry, fearful, or irrational manner; and
  • Behaving, speaking, writing, and positioning their body in strange ways.


Diagnosis



It is important to seek a timely diagnosis. The sooner the better, so other causes may be ruled out. Start the conversation by speaking with the family, school counselor, family doctor, and/or pediatrician.


An assessment is completed by a psychiatrist, and/or other medical professionals. They will ask questions about signs and symptoms, life events around the time changes started being noticed, etc.



Treatments



Once a diagnosis is confirmed treatment for schizophrenia is long-term, for the rest of a person’s life. There are several treatment options available, which are usually discussed at the time of diagnosis:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy;
  • Antipsychotic medications;
  • Regular physical activity;
  • Support groups; and
  • Education

For further support, community resources such as the Schizophrenia Society of Alberta are on hand



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