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Schizophrenia |
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Schizophrenia is a severe and chronic mental illness that affects both men and women. It is a psychotic disorder that is often characterized by strange and unusual thoughts and behaviors. There are certain criteria that must be met in order for a person to be diagnosed with schizophrenia. Symptoms of schizophrenia may include the following:
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delusional thinking - exaggerated and/or distorted thoughts not based on fact;
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hallucinations – seeing, hearing, and/or feeling things that aren’t real; disorganized
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thoughts – nonsensical thoughts and illogical speech;
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bizarre/odd behaviors – wild gestures, aggression; bizarre clothing: and
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catatonia – very rigid posture; resistance to movement
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The exact cause of schizophrenia is unknown, and there is no known cure; however, schizophrenia can be successfully treated by working closely with a psychiatrist and other mental health professionals. Prior to being given a diagnosis of schizophrenia one should have a complete medical work-up to rule out some other medical condition. Treatment options for schizophrenia include hospitalization, outpatient medication management and therapy. Once a diagnosis of schizophrenia is confirmed one should consult with their treating providers to determine the best course of treatment.
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Websites of interest:
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Author: Ebony Benjamin, MSW, LCSW
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