Mental Health, Psychiatry and Psychology

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is defined as a chronic brain disorder which affects 1% of the Americans populations. It usually occurs in the late adolescence age and characterized by hallucinations, cognitive difficulties, trouble with thinking, delusions, lack of motivation etc. People suffering from this disorder can have lifelong struggle. Although schizophrenia can occur at any age, the average age to be in the late teens to the early 20s for men, and the late 20s to early 30s for women. It is uncommon for schizophrenia to be diagnosed in a person younger than 12 or older than 40. It is possible to live well with schizophrenia. After so much research on schizophrenia, the researchers demonstrated the causes of the disorder are; Genetics, Environment, Brain chemistry, Substance use (mind-altering, smoking marijuana).

Schizophrenia people can be treated and managed by Antipsychotic medications, Psychotherapy; such as cognitive behavioral therapy and assertive community treatment and supportive therapy, Self-management strategies and education.