People with schizophrenia are more likely than the general population to use alcohol and other drugs, and this is detrimental to treatment. A considerable proportion of people with schizophrenia have been shown to smoke, which contributes to poor physical health. What are the symptoms of schizophrenia? What causes schizophrenia? What treatment is available? Where to go for help About this brochure Popular Feedback Provide feedback If you would like a response please complete our enquiries form.
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It will be used to make improvements to this website. Page last updated: May Table of contents What is schizophrenia? Symptoms can vary in type and severity over time, with periods of worsening and remission of symptoms.
Some symptoms may always be present. In men, schizophrenia symptoms typically start in the early to mids. In women, symptoms typically begin in the late 20s. It's uncommon for children to be diagnosed with schizophrenia and rare for those older than age Schizophrenia symptoms in teenagers are similar to those in adults, but the condition may be more difficult to recognize.
This may be in part because some of the early symptoms of schizophrenia in teenagers are common for typical development during teen years, such as:. Also, recreational substance use, such as marijuana, methamphetamines or LSD, can sometimes cause similar signs and symptoms. People with schizophrenia often lack awareness that their difficulties stem from a mental disorder that requires medical attention.
So it often falls to family or friends to get them help. If you think someone you know may have symptoms of schizophrenia, talk to him or her about your concerns.
Although you can't force someone to seek professional help, you can offer encouragement and support and help your loved one find a qualified doctor or mental health professional.
If your loved one poses a danger to self or others or can't provide his or her own food, clothing, or shelter, you may need to call or other emergency responders for help so that your loved one can be evaluated by a mental health professional. In some cases, emergency hospitalization may be needed. Laws on involuntary commitment for mental health treatment vary by state. You can contact community mental health agencies or police departments in your area for details.
Suicidal thoughts and behavior are common among people with schizophrenia. If you have a loved one who is in danger of attempting suicide or has made a suicide attempt, make sure someone stays with that person. Call or your local emergency number immediately. Or, if you think you can do so safely, take the person to the nearest hospital emergency room. It's not known what causes schizophrenia, but researchers believe that a combination of genetics, brain chemistry and environment contributes to development of the disorder.
Problems with certain naturally occurring brain chemicals, including neurotransmitters called dopamine and glutamate, may contribute to schizophrenia. Neuroimaging studies show differences in the brain structure and central nervous system of people with schizophrenia.
Advocacy Advocate for Change. Advocacy Policy Priorities. Advocacy Policy Platform. Advocacy Crisis Intervention. Advocacy State Fact Sheets. Advocacy Public Policy Reports. Symptoms It can be difficult to diagnose schizophrenia in teens. For a diagnosis of schizophrenia, some of the following symptoms are present in the context of reduced functioning for a least 6 months: Hallucinations.
Causes Research suggests that schizophrenia may have several possible causes: Genetics. Heredity does play a strong role—your likelihood of developing schizophrenia is more than six times higher if you have a close relative, such as a parent or sibling, with the disorder Environment. Exposure to viruses or malnutrition before birth, particularly in the first and second trimesters has been shown to increase the risk of schizophrenia.
Recent research also suggests a relationship between autoimmune disorders and the development of psychosis.
Brain chemistry. Problems with certain brain chemicals, including neurotransmitters called dopamine and glutamate, may contribute to schizophrenia. Neurotransmitters allow brain cells to communicate with each other. Networks of neurons are likely involved as well.
Substance use. Some studies have suggested that taking mind-altering drugs during teen years and young adulthood can increase the risk of schizophrenia.
A growing body of evidence indicates that smoking marijuana increases the risk of psychotic incidents and the risk of ongoing psychotic experiences. The younger and more frequent the use, the greater the risk.
Diagnosis Diagnosing schizophrenia is not easy. To be diagnosed with schizophrenia, a person must have two or more of the following symptoms occurring persistently in the context of reduced functioning: Delusions Hallucinations Disorganized speech Disorganized or catatonic behavior Negative symptoms Delusions or hallucinations alone can often be enough to lead to a diagnosis of schizophrenia.
Treatment There is no cure for schizophrenia, but it can be treated and managed in several ways. Antipsychotic medications Psychotherapy , such as cognitive behavioral therapy and assertive community treatment and supportive therapy Self-management strategies and education Related Conditions People with schizophrenia may have additional illnesses.
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