Schizophrenia

What is Schizophrenia?

• Schizophrenia is a chronic mental health disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves, often causing difficulty distinguishing between reality and imagination.
• It can interfere with daily functioning, relationships, work, and self-care.
• Affects about 24 million people worldwide.
• Usually begins in late adolescence or early adulthood.
• Can occur in both men and women.
• Requires long-term treatment and support.

Diagnosis of Schizophrenia

• There is no single test - diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation.
• Psychiatric and medical history
• Mental status examination
• Physical exam and lab tests
• Brain imaging when required

Importance of Early Care

• Early diagnosis improves outcomes.
• Reduces relapse and hospitalization.
• Helps maintain independence and quality of life.

Symptoms of Schizophrenia

• Hallucinations - hearing or seeing things not present
• Delusions - false fixed beliefs
• Disorganized speech or thinking
• Unusual or disorganized behaviour
• Poor attention and memory
• Impaired decision-making and problem solving

Treatment of Schizophrenia

• Medications
  • Antipsychotic medicines (main treatment)
  • Help reduce hallucinations and delusions
• Rehabilitation & Support
  • Vocational rehabilitation
  • Community mental health services