Understanding & Giving Support to Someone with Schizophrenia

What comes to mind when the word schizophrenia is spoken? Likely images of a bedraggled man or woman, with wild hair and tattered clothing, chatting away with someone that you can’t see, as they amble down a city street. You might actually cross the street to avoid him or her, so as not to get caught up in their delusion. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) describes the condition as “characterized by delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech and behavior, and other symptoms that cause social or occupational dysfunction. For a diagnosis, symptoms must have been present for six months and include at least one month of active symptoms.” These are merely words on a page that allow treating professionals to determine clinical interventions such as psychotherapy, inpatient hospitalization if symptoms warrant, and medication. Although there is no clear-cut answer, it is known that schizophrenia is considered a brain disease that has genetic components. A cautionary note to consider is that DNA is not a defining factor, since in identical twins, one may present with the symptoms, while the other may not. According to ongoing scientific research, brain development in utero may offer a key to unlock the mystery. Another theory relates to a viral component, which may exacerbate developmental conditions. In short, schizophrenia appears to be a complex condition caused by no single factor by itself. In men, schizophrenia symptoms ge...
Source: Psych Central - Category: Psychiatry Authors: Tags: Antipsychotics Atypical Antipsychotics Caregivers Disorders Family General Medications Psychology Psychotherapy Schizophrenia Treatment American Psychiatric Association Delusion Delusional disorder Diagnostic And Statistical Ma Source Type: news