Schizophrenia is a mental illness affecting 1% of the population. Symptoms most frequently begin in the teenage years or the 20’s.The most common features are hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking and behavior, loss of interest in social activities, lack of energy and drive, and problems of attention, memory, and decision making. Some of these symptoms may be quite distressing or even frightening to the individual with schizophrenia. Individuals with schizophrenia tend to have difficulties at work or school, in relationships with family and friends, and sometimes in basic self-care.
Schizophrenia is frequently associated with substance abuse, and, at times, unpredictable or aggressive behavior. Some people with schizophrenia do not believe they are ill.
The features of schizophrenia are more fully decribed here:
NARSAD: The Mental Health Research Association
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
National Institute of Mental Health
What causes schizophrenia?
It is now clear that schizophrenia is a disease of the brain. It is possible that the brain abnormality is from the abnormal growth or development of brain cells or from a problem in the chemistry of the brain cells. Why these brain abnormalities occur is not fully known, though genes inherited from one or both parents are probably important. It is suspected that factors other than genes may also be involved, such as exposure at a young age to certain infections or other stressors, but much remains unknown.
How is the diagnosis of schizophrenia made?
There is no test for schizophrenia. The diagnosis is based on an interview of the patient by an experienced clinician and a detailed history of symptoms provided by both the patient and by individuals who know the patient well. Blood tests, brain scans, and EEG (brain wave tests) will often be obtained to search for the presence of other diseases that may cause symptoms similar to the symptoms of schizophrenia.
What is the treatment for schizophrenia?
A number of approaches to treatment are typically necessary; the focus of treatment will be different for each patient. Most patients will benefit by treatment with medicines. The most commonly used type of medicines are known as antipsychotics, sometimes called neuroleptics. These are divided into two groups, typical and atypical antipsychotics. The two classes have somewhat different chemical properties, and have different advantages and disadvantages. A variety of other medicines may also be helpful for individual patients.
Are there treatments other than medicine?
Treatment in addition to medicine is often essential. Many patients benefit from individual, family, or group psychotherapy (counseling). These sessions typically emphasize the emotional and practical consequences of the illness, and how the individual or family can work to gain control over the illness. Discussion may focus on the nature and symptoms of the disease itself, the recognition of early signs of a relapse, the importance of medicine and the recognition of medicine side effects, coping with symptoms when they do occur, relationships with family or co-workers, finding and keeping a job, or staying school. Many patients also benefit from programs that emphasize rehabilitation and practical skills. The emphasis is again different for each individual, but may range from self-care to finding and keeping a job.
Does the illness ever go away?
Schizophrenia does not usually disappear with age. However, with medicine, psychotherapy, education, and support from families and friends,it is possible for people with schizophrenia to lead full and satisfying lives. People with schizophrenia can obtain and keep meaningful jobs, enter into romantic relationships and marriage, and maintain warm relationships with friends and family members.
Who are the professionals that treat
individuals with schizophrenia?
Psychiatrists are physicians who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness, including prescribing medicines. Psychologists also have experience in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness, and may have expertise in testing to determine strengths and weaknesses in thinking and memory. Psychologists do not prescribe medicine. Nurses with special training in mental health work with psychiatrists in hospital and clinic settings, assisting in all phases of diagnosis and treatment. Occupational therapists are experts in assessing the ability of individuals to function in the real world, and in providing treatment to improve function. Social workers are experts in the social systems that are critical to the well-being of patients with mental illnesses. Social workers may work with family members, assist the patient in obtaining medical benefits, and help the patient make use of community resources such as supervised housing and medical clinics. Therapist is a general term for clinicians who treat patients with mental illness. Therapists may be psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, social workers, or other individuals who typically have specialized training.
I have been told that I or a family member has schizophrenia.
How can Johns Hopkins be of assistance?
Johns Hopkins provides both diagnostic and treatment services for individuals with schizophrenia, or who might have schizophrenia but are unsure.
Click here to see the Johns Hopkins 5-step approach to the treatment of schizophrenia.
