Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a serious and chronic mental health disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It can cause significant disruptions in a person’s ability to distinguish reality from imagination, manage emotions, make decisions, and function socially.

Despite common myths, schizophrenia is not a split personality—it is a complex brain disorder that can be treated and managed with proper medical care and support.

Key Symptoms of Schizophrenia:

• Hallucinations – seeing, hearing, or sensing things that are not real (most commonly voices)
• Delusions – false beliefs that are firmly held despite evidence to the contrary
• Disorganized Thinking – trouble organizing thoughts or speech
• Negative Symptoms – lack of motivation, social withdrawal, reduced emotional expression
• Cognitive Issues – poor concentration, memory problems, difficulty making decisions

Possible Causes and Risk Factors:

• Genetic predisposition (family history)
• Chemical imbalances in the brain (dopamine, glutamate)
• Complications during birth or pregnancy
• Substance use (especially during teenage years)
• Stressful life events or trauma

Effective Treatment Options:

• Antipsychotic medications to manage symptoms
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and supportive counseling
• Family therapy and education to strengthen support systems
• Social skills training for better day-to-day functioning
• Regular follow-up with a psychiatrist for medication and symptom monitoring