Schizophrenia is a psychological disorder that affects the basal ganglia—the part of the brain that produces dopamine and regulates coordinated movement, motivation, and the award pathway. This disorder is frequently misunderstood and is usually classified separately from other disorders since it is not considered an anxiety or mood disorder. Individuals with schizophrenia have difficulty separating reality from non-reality as they often experience a stimulus that creates perceptions of things that do not exist.
Schizophrenia affects one percent of the population, and researchers state that women who suffer from the disorder usually encounter symptoms during their mid-twenties to early thirties. Explanations are indefinite as to why this happens; however, people are not born schizophrenic, and there are investigations stating that individuals are born with a genetic makeup to become schizophrenic.
The following symptoms of Schizophrenia can elevate and decrease depending on the individual:
• Delusions
• Hallucinations
• Lack of emotional expression
• Disordered thinking
• Inappropriate responses
Scientist have categorized Schizophrenia into the following three parts:
Positive category presence of psychosis. The symptoms are delusions, paranoia, and hallucinations with RX antipsychotic as typical treatment.
Negative category absence of normal behavior. Symptoms are lack of interest, pleasure, and social withdrawal. Perhaps treatment will be behavioral therapy and positive reinforcement.
Cognitive category, which is the ability to learn and use information. Symptoms: judgement and memory are affected. Proposed treatment: cognitive remediation—rewiring the brain.
Statistics have shown that fifty percent of individuals living with schizophrenia can lead normal lives with proper treatment; understanding and family support can greatly help the individual with stability. Poor awareness of the disorder can lead to family dysfunction and desolation, and if left untreated the individual could suffer tremendously, leading them toward suicide, malnutrition, and homelessness.
Caregivers, family, and friends are advised to seek support and education on the disorder. Let’s break the stigma!
If you or someone you know are suffering from Schizophrenia, please contact www.schizophrenia.com
For Support, Contact www.waltersgroupforwomen.com
