Have you ever heard the term Schizophrenia? Or is someone around you experiencing this condition? It is important to know that schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder that affects the way a person thinks, feels and behaves. This disorder is often accompanied by symptoms of psychosis, where sufferers have difficulty distinguishing between reality and their own thoughts or experiences. Getting to know Schizophrenia more closely can be an important step in understanding and providing appropriate support for those who experience it.
Let's get to know what schizophrenia is
Schizophrenia can be called a chronic mental disorder that usually appears in late adolescence or early adulthood. Although this is rare, this disorder can actually affect around 1% of the population worldwide. In order not to be mistaken, you need to know that schizophrenia is not multiple personality or dissociative identity disorder, as is often misunderstood by the general public.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of schizophrenia can generally be identified as follows:
- Positive Symptoms: What are referred to as positive symptoms are symptoms that add to abnormal behavior or thoughts, including hallucinations (hearing or seeing something that is not there), delusions (false beliefs that are not in accordance with reality), and thought disorders (thoughts that chaotic and disorganized).
- Negative Symptoms: These symptoms reflect a reduction or loss of normal abilities. Examples include lack of emotional expression, inability to experience pleasure in daily activities (anhedonia), and difficulty initiating and maintaining productive activities.
- Cognitive Symptoms: Cognitive symptoms relate to problems in information processing and memory. Patients suffering from schizophrenia can have difficulty concentrating, remembering information, and making decisions.
So, what causes schizophrenia?
The causes of schizophrenia are not fully understood, but there are several things that cause it, such as a combination of biological, psychological and social factors. Genetics, environment, and changes in brain chemistry play a role in the development of this disorder.
1. Biological Factors
A family history of schizophrenia increases a person's risk of developing this disorder. A study of twins and family members indicated that genetic factors could explain 80% of the causes of schizophrenia. However, no single gene causes schizophrenia; rather, several genes may contribute to risk. In addition, studies on schizophrenia patients show an imbalance of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and glutamate in the brain. Abnormalities in brain structure have also been observed in some individuals with schizophrenia.
Hany M, Rehman B, Rizvi A, et al. Schizophrenia. [Updated 2024 Feb 23]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-.
2. Social Factors
Several environmental factors such as exposure to viruses, malnutrition before birth, severe stress during childhood, and use of illegal drugs during adolescence or young adulthood can trigger the emergence of schizophrenia. Social factors that can trigger the emergence of schizophrenia symptoms include: stress at work/unemployment, low socioeconomic status, social isolation/lack of social support, not having a place to live, and discrimination/social stigma.
González-Rodríguez, Alexandre et al. “Schizophrenia: A Review of Social Risk Factors That Affect Women.” Behavioral sciences (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 13.7 581. 12 Jul. 2023, doi:10.3390/bs13070581
3. Psychological Factors
Some personality types such as neurotic, borderline, antisocial, and obsessive-compulsive are associated with a higher risk of schizophrenia. Comorbidity with other mental disorders such as depression and anxiety can also trigger more severe schizophrenic episodes. People who experience loneliness, deep feelings of guilt, and stress/trauma can also trigger or worsen schizophrenia symptoms.
Franquillo, Anna Chiara et al. “The Role of Personality in Schizophrenia and Psychosis: A Systematic Review.” Clinical neuropsychiatry vol. 18.1 (2021): 28-40. doi:10.36131/cnfioritieditore20210103
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing Schizophrenia involves a thorough evaluation by a mental health professional, including a clinical interview, physical examination, and laboratory tests to rule out other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms. Treatment of schizophrenia usually involves a combination approach, including:
1. Medication
Antipsychotics can be called the most common type of drug used to treat the mental disorder Schizophrenia. This medication helps manage positive symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions.
2. Psychological Therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and family therapy can help individuals with Schizophrenia and their families to understand and manage this disorder better.
3. Proper Social Support and Rehabilitation
Social support and rehabilitation programs help individuals with Schizophrenia to develop social skills, obtain employment, and live independently.
Stigma and discrimination against people with schizophrenia is still a big problem. It is important for society to increase awareness and understanding of schizophrenia in order to provide better support to those who experience it. Support from family, friends, and community can play a huge role in the recovery and well-being of individuals with Schizophrenia.
Schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder that affects many aspects of a person's life. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options available, we can be better prepared to provide support and create a more inclusive environment for those living with Schizophrenia. Proper support and understanding can help schizophrenia patients lead more productive lives.
Article written by dr. Eva Suryani, Sp.KJ (Psychiatric Medicine Specialist at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).