Schizophrenia – What You Should Know

Schizophrenia (SKITS-oh-FREEN-ee-uh)---one of the most damaging of all mental disorders---causes its victims to lose touch with reality. They often begin to hear, see, or feel things that aren't really there (hallucinations) or become convinced of things that simply aren't true (delusions). Their thinking may become scrambled. Some just withdraw and drift off into another reality. Schizophrenia strikes less than 1 per cent of the population. The first signs usually surface between the ages of 15 and 34. There is no cure, but the disorder can be controlled with medications. Severe attacks may require :mb hospitalization. :mx

Causes

The causes of schizophrenia are still under debate. A chemical imbalance in the brain seems to play a role, but the reason for the imbalance remains unclear. We do know that you're a bit more likely to become schizophrenic if you have a family member with the illness. Stress does not cause schizophrenia, but can make the symptoms worse.

Signs/Symptoms

Schizophrenia usually develops gradually, although onset can be sudden. Friends and family often notice the first changes before the victim does. Among the signs are:

• Changes in eating or sleeping habits, energy level, or weight
• Confusion
• Inability to make decisions
• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Nervousness
• Ideas that do not connect or make sense
• Repetitive actions
• Long periods of immobility
• Strange statements or behavior

Victims' emotions may not match the situation. For example, they may laugh at bad news. Or they may fail to show any emotion at all. Often, they stop socializing, going to work or school, and caring for personal hygiene.

Care

Drugs such as Thorazine, Haldol, and Risperdal combat symptoms in 4 out of 5 patients. An acute attack usually can be cleared up in 4 to 8 weeks. Counseling and group therapy help recovering patients to understand the disease and to function effectively.

Risks

Without medication and therapy, schizophrenics are unable to function in the real world. If they fall victim to severe hallucinations and delusions, they can be a danger to themselves and those around them.