
OVERVIEW
It is a complex disorder. Many psychologists believe it is a cluster of disorders. The splitting of basic psychological functions and behavior distinguishes it. It results in people having serious problems adjusting to the demands of reality. They misinterpret their surroundings, frequently hearing or seeing things that do not exist.
NATURE AND DEFINITION OF SCHIZOPHRENIA
Schizophrenia is a complex and often misunderstood mental health disorder characterized by hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking or speech. It usually causes major difficulties in daily life functioning and may affect a person’s relationships and jobs For most people, this disorder lasts far longer and symptoms can come and go.
MAJOR TYPES OF SCHIZOPHRENIA
DSM-IV divides schizophrenia majorly into five types which are as follows:
Symptoms
Symptoms differentiate into three major categories:
● Positive symptoms refer to adding something that isn’t normally there like seeing or hearing things that don’t exist. It is described as type-1 schizophrenia. In comparison to negative symptoms, a person who shows an absence of normal functions is described as type-2 schizophrenia.
● Major harm in work,self-care, relationships.
● Uncertain behavior.
CAUSES OF SCHIZOPHRENIA
Schizophrenia causes
● Genetic: It is likely to run in families. A person having a family history has a threat of developing it.
● The body’s chemical messengers: neurotransmitter imbalances, selectively glutamate, and dopamine. These are viewed as an important role in the beginning of schizophrenia.
● Brain Structure: studies showed structural abnormalities in the brains. It leads to enlarged ventricles.
● high risk of developing by Using drugs, cannabis, .
● Cultural background is seen as influencing how symptoms are perceived by a person.
Types Symptoms
● Catatonic Unusual pattern of motor activity.
● Disorganized Absence of affect.
poorly developed delusions.
● Paranoid Preoccupation with one or more sets of delusions.
● Undifferentiated Delusions.
hallucinations
● Residual Absence of motivation, minimal effect, withdrawal.
Famous People With Schizophrenia
- Eduard Einstein: he is the second son of Albert Einstein.
- Parveen Babi (1970s-1980s): A famous actress, she openly discussed her battle
and highlighted the stigma she suffers from mental illness in the film industry.
TREATMENT OF SCHIZOPHRENIA
● Antipsychotics: primary medications that help in reducing symptoms like
hallucinations and delusions. It can be seen as two main types:
- Typical: haloperidol and chlorpromazine.
- Atypical: risperidone, olanzapine, and quetiapine. These may have fewer side effects depending on the person
● Connect with people who have similar experiences.
● Engaging in physical exercise, having a well-balanced diet, sufficient sleep cycle can help in improving
●It is important to ensure the safety of the patient.