SCHIZOPHRENIA: NAVIGATING THE LABYRINTH OF HISTORY, SYMPTOMS, AND TREATMENTS

Schizophrenia is a complex mental health condition that has a profound impact on individuals and their connection with society. It is characterized by a disturbance in thought processes, which leads to disruptions in emotional responsiveness and deteriorating social interactions [5]. The severity of schizophrenia can vary greatly, and in this blog, we will explore the causes of this disease and how it is currently being treated.

Schizophrenia typically emerges in early adulthood and must persist for a duration of six months for a conclusive diagnosis. Men tend to experience symptoms between their late teens and early 20s, while women tend to exhibit signs of schizophrenia between their 20s to early 30s. However, beyond the more apparent indicators such as reduced performance in academic and professional settings and challenges in social relationships can contribute to the diagnosis of schizophrenia [1].

Moreover, several symptoms can display schizophrenia. Firstly, individuals with schizophrenia tend to experience psychosis, altering their perception of the world. Additionally, this disruption in the brain’s information processing leads to their disconnection from reality, as their understanding of the real world diminishes due to their thought process. Most importantly, their thoughts are disturbed, which makes it difficult for them to understand reality [6]. Delusions and hallucinations are common experiences, which involve the perception and understanding of nonexistent matter. Furthermore, disrupted thinking leads to disorganized speech, making it problematic to communicate with others, ultimately influencing social relationships effectively. The physical being of individuals with schizophrenia is compromised which is highlighted by their constant agitation, bizarre posture, lack of response, and excessive movement. Ultimately, these negative systems cause function abnormalities, i.e., neglecting personal hygiene and lacking emotion, which leads to a drastic decrease in interest in everyday activities while they are socially isolated from others [4].

Schizophrenia affects 24 million people worldwide, which means that 1 in every 300 individuals in every country is impacted. The condition also reduces the life expectancy of most Americans by an average of 30 years, with an expected lifespan of 77 years. Furthermore, 80% of people with schizophrenia remain chronically ill, and 85% of them require constant assistance from someone to help manage their daily lives [7]. These statistics only scratch the surface of the pain and suffering that people with schizophrenia endure. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of these issues and do our best to help those in need.

The constant human desire to solve problems has driven society to relentlessly search for a cure for schizophrenia. However, despite the lack of a cure, antipsychotic medications are considered a suitable alternative. These medications can lower the risk of future acute episodes and reduce the severity of other psychotic symptoms experienced during the acute phase of the illness. Additionally, psychological therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy or supportive psychotherapy can help alleviate symptoms and improve functionality. Other treatments focus on stress reduction, which can ultimately enhance the patient's social skills [1].