Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a chronic brain disorder which affects an individual’s ability to think, feel and behave clearly. The cause of this disorder is unknown but many factors including genetics, environment and altered brain chemistry and structure might play a role.

One mustn’t confuse schizophrenia with split personality or multiple personality disorder. Schizophrenic patients seems to be out of touch with reality, giving into unclear, irrational thoughts and deeds. They exhibit a very disorganized speech or behavior traits and participate less in daily activities. They struggle with concentration and memory. Patients experience delusional thoughts, hallucinations and lack of motivation.

Schizophrenic people undergo episodes in which they are unable to distinguish between real and unreal experiences. The frequency, duration and intensity of the symptoms vary. Some positive symptoms they display are hallucinations, such as hearing voices or seeing things that don’t exist, paranoia, delusions, unnatural or amplified perceptions, behavior and beliefs.

Negative symptoms include a decrease in the ability to make plans, speak or express feelings. Some show disorganized symptoms which are confused and disordered thinking and speech, etc.

The cure for schizophrenia doesn’t really exist but substantial researches are being made in this respect. Various forms of therapy are recommended to manage the illness and help improve the individual’s livelihood. Support and positive attitude from loved ones would better the lives of the patients and enable them to be more optimistic.