Schizophrenia Specialist

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. People with schizophrenia may have delusional symptoms and hallucinations that make it appear as though they have lost touch with what’s happening around them.

These symptoms not only affect the person with schizophrenia but also have a major impact on family and friends.

But with the right treatment and support, people with schizophrenia can experience significant improvements in their symptoms and live a full life.

What are the symptoms of schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia symptoms develop gradually over time, affecting how a person thinks, feels, and behaves until they have an episode of psychosis. Psychosis is a condition that affects how your brain processes information, causing you to lose touch with reality. 

Symptoms of schizophrenia fall into three categories:

Psychotic symptoms

Psychotic symptoms include hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking. Hearing voices, feeling paranoid, and distorted perceptions are examples of these types of symptoms.

Negative symptoms

Negative symptoms of schizophrenia include lack of motivation, loss of joy, and withdrawal from friends. You no longer experience feelings of pleasure in everyday life.

Cognitive symptoms

Cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia affect attention, concentration, and memory. 

What causes schizophrenia?

Researchers are still investigating the underlying cause of schizophrenia but theorize it develops from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. 

Schizophrenia runs in families. However, there’s no single gene that causes the psychiatric disorder, but there are multiple genes connected to the condition.

A combination of genes and environmental factors, such as stress or exposure to viruses, may also play a role in causing schizophrenia.

Additionally, researchers think alterations in the brain structure and function may contribute to the development of schizophrenia. 

What are the treatments for schizophrenia?

Medications and therapy are the primary treatments for schizophrenia. At Mental Health Wellness Boutique, Mrs. Ashamalla conducts a thorough diagnostic evaluation to assess your medical and psychological needs.

Treatment for schizophrenia may include:

Medications

Antipsychotic medications ease the intensity and frequency of the psychotic episodes in people with schizophrenia. Mrs. Ashamalla works with you and your family to find the right medication and dose to improve your symptoms. 

Therapy

Mrs. Ashamalla customizes therapy based on patients' needs. It may include individual and family therapy, along with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Family involvement in treatment for people with schizophrenia improves outcomes.

For comprehensive care with schizophrenia, call the Mental Health Wellness Boutique office in Peoria, Arizona, or schedule online today. Telemedicine appointments are also available.