Schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder in which the affected individual becomes unable to differentiate between reality and imagination. Schizophrenia is a life-long illness and causes a sudden change in the behavior and personality of the affected individual which is referred to as a psychotic episode. Schizophrenia affects all behavioral, cognitive, and emotional aspects of an individual such as emotions, thinking, and the way he responds to situations. This disorder cannot be cured, but can only be managed with the help of medications.
Diagnosis
While diagnosing schizophrenia, a doctor ensures that the underlying symptoms are not being caused due to any other mental disease or have not appeared due to drug abuse or medications. The ways to diagnose schizophrenia include:
- Physical examination: Physical examination is carried out to eliminate the possibility of other disorders that can cause similar symptoms.
- Psychiatric examination: During a psychiatric evaluation, a practitioner analyzes the mental health of the individual by observing their behavior, expressions, and mood, by asking questions about substance abuse, suicidal tendencies, hallucinations, and a family or individual history of the disorder.
- Tests and screenings: In this diagnostic step, some screening tests, such as MRI or CT scan are performed for a better understanding of the underlying cause of the disease. In certain cases, this step is helpful in determining the disorders that can cause symptoms that are similar to schizophrenia.
Diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia
A well-established diagnostic criterion for schizophrenia is the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which has been finalized and published by the American Psychiatric Association.
Treatments
Schizophrenia is generally managed with the help of medications, therapy, and by providing social skills training to the affected individuals.
- Medications: The most commonly prescribed medication for schizophrenia is antipsychotics. They act by controlling the levels of dopamine, a crucial neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. The choice of antipsychotics depends upon the psychiatrist and the symptoms. Certain anti-anxiety and antidepressant drugs are also prescribed to manage the symptoms of schizophrenia. These medicines could, however, have serious side-effects. Use of first-generation antipsychotics can cause neurological disorders such as movement disorders. Second-generation antipsychotics, however, have fewer side effects and are often prescribed.
- Individual therapy: This is helpful in normalizing the thought process of the affected individual. It also helps to identify the early warning symptoms of schizophrenia.
- Social skills: Schizophrenics live an isolated life and this therapy focuses on improving the social behavior and communication skills of the affected individuals. It also trains an individual to participate better in routine activities. Certain vocational training can also help schizophrenic individuals in finding jobs.
- Family therapy: Schizophrenia is a lifelong disorder, and hence, both complete support and help from the family are necessary. This therapy session educates families about schizophrenia and its management.
Schizophrenia is a major disabling mental disorder and can affect the social and personal life of an individual. An affected individual will need a proper medication regimen and help from the family, society, and friends for managing the disorder.
