
Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a mental health condition that affects perception of reality.
Schizophrenia is not a split in personality. In Greek, schizophrenia means “split” and “mind”. People with schizophrenia cannot tell what is reality and what is not.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms of schizophrenia fall into three clusters: positive, negative, disorganised symptoms.
Positive
- Hallucinations e.g. hearing voices
- Delusions e.g. believing their mind is being read
Negative
- Inability to form close relationships
- Reduced feelings of pleasure
- Reduced speaking
- Decreased ability in expressing emotions
Disorganised
- Disorganised thinking pattern and speech
- Problems in concentration and memory
Caregiver Support
Taking care of a loved one suffering from Schizophrenia can be lonely, energy draining and psychologically stressful. Speaking to a mental health professional or join a caregiver support group are some ways to meeting your own emotional needs.
Risk Factors
Biological
- Several genes increase the risk of having schizophrenia
- History of family members with schizophrenia increases the likelihood of getting schizophrenia
- Chemical imbalances in the brain
Environmental
- Malnutrition before birth
- Problems during birth
- Greater reactivity to stressors
Treatment
Medication
Antipsychotics can relieve hallucinations and delusions associated with schizophrenia. They can also reduce the chances of relapse.
Rehabilitation
People are taught to manage their symptoms. They learn skills for interpersonal situations such as completing a job application, and making appointments. This results in better social functioning and fewer relapses.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy enables people to explore their experiences with schizophrenia. They are able to discuss their feelings about having schizophrenia, and the impacts schizophrenia has had on their relationships. With the help of the therapist, people are able to learn how to deal with their thoughts and behaviours. The therapist can also teach them to decide whether something is real or not.
For support:
Reach out to our specialised therapists at The Therapy Platform
Call us at 66770725 or chat with our friendly Therapy Support Specialist
Mon-Fri: 9am to 6pm
Janna is our in-house blog writer and therapy specialist. She is supporting The Therapy Platform users towards successful therapy experience.
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