Schizophrenia is a chronic mental illness. It affects about 1 percent of the population, although the condition’s exact prevalence is hard to obtain. Show
People with this condition experience:
Schizophrenia is divided into stages, or phases. Each phase is marked by specific symptoms and signs. phases of schizophrenia Each phase of schizophrenia has symptoms that help classify it. Though symptoms of active schizophrenia may seem to come on suddenly, the condition takes years to develop. In the early prodromal phase, symptoms aren’t always obvious, as you’ll see when you read about this first phase. Prodromal schizophrenia symptomsThe first signs and symptoms of schizophrenia may be overlooked because they’re common to many other conditions, such as depression. It’s often not until schizophrenia has advanced to the active phase that the prodromal phase is recognized and diagnosed. Symptoms in this phase may include:
Active schizophrenia symptomsAt this phase of schizophrenia, the symptoms may be the most obvious. Yet research suggests by the time a person is at this phase, they may have been showing symptoms of prodromal schizophrenia for approximately 2 years. Symptoms include:
Residual schizophrenia symptomsWhile no longer used in diagnosing, some clinicians may still describe this phase when discussing symptoms and the progression of schizophrenia. Symptoms in this phase of the illness resemble symptoms in the first phase. They’re characterized by low energy and lack of motivation, but some elements of the active phase remain. Some people may relapse back to the active phase. Symptoms of the residual phase are said to include:
It’s unclear why individuals develop schizophrenia. Likewise, it’s unclear exactly how or why a person moves through the stages at the pace they do. Researchers believe a combination of factors set off chemical and structural changes in the brain. Ultimately, these changes lead to schizophrenia. Those same factors may influence when or how quickly a person progresses from one phase to another. Researchers believe these factors may contribute to developing schizophrenia:
A diagnosis for schizophrenia is often first made in the active stage. This is when symptoms become most obvious. Other people may recognize the disordered thoughts and behavior patterns for the first time. At that point, a doctor may work with friends and family members to understand when early symptoms began. Symptoms of the first phase are often not recognized until a person is in the active phase. Once a diagnosis is made, a doctor will also be able to determine when the active phase is over based on symptoms and behaviors. Where to Find Help Most people with schizophrenia aren’t diagnosed until the second phase, once symptoms worsen and become more obvious. At this point, treatment options include:
Where to Seek Emergency Care The first phase of schizophrenia can typically last around two years. However, it’s not always recognized or diagnosed until a person is in the active phase. If the active phase is left untreated, symptoms can last for weeks, even months. Relapses may be more prevalent, as well. In one manner or another, a person diagnosed with schizophrenia will be managing symptoms or working to prevent a relapse for the majority of their life. Schizophrenia is a mental health disorder that causes a variety of symptoms. The earliest symptoms (schizophrenia prodrome) may go undetected until more severe symptoms develop in the active phase of the illness. The final stage, residual schizophrenia, still causes symptoms. But these aren’t as severe or disordered as the active phase. Treatment can help reduce symptoms and prevent relapses. As schizophrenia is a life-long condition, treatment will likely be necessary throughout life. Which of the following is the most effective treatment for individuals with schizophrenia?The most effective treatment for schizophrenia is a combination of using antipsychotic medications and therapeutic and social support.
Which of the following are usually prescribed for a person with a diagnosis of schizophrenia?Newer medications, called atypical antipsychotics, are also effective in relieving the symptoms of schizophrenia. These medications, including quetiapine, risperidone, and aripiprazole, are generally prescribed because they pose a lower risk of certain serious side effects than conventional antipsychotics.
Which of the following is considered a positive symptom of schizophrenia?positive symptoms – any change in behaviour or thoughts, such as hallucinations or delusions.
Who of the following is most likely to be diagnosed with schizophrenia?Men and women are equally likely to get this brain disorder, but guys tend to get it slightly earlier. On average, men are diagnosed in their late teens to early 20s. Women tend to get diagnosed in their late 20s to early 30s. People rarely develop schizophrenia before they're 12 or after they're 40.
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