Schizophrenia in Mesa, AZ
Schizophrenia is a disorder that is characterized by delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, and either disorganized or catatonic behavior. It typically emerges in late adolescence or early adulthood, affecting about 1% of the global population. You or someone you know may suffer from schizophrenia, and seeking help is crucial.
Imagine regaining control over your life, rebuilding relationships, and pursuing your goals. With the help of Jennifer Anderson, PMHNP at Thrive Psychiatry LLC, you or your loved one can navigate the challenges of schizophrenia in Mesa, AZ and take the first step toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. You can expect personalized care tailored to your unique needs.
Schizophrenia Overview: Causes & Symptoms
Schizophrenia affects how you think, feel, and behave. Its causes aren't entirely understood, but a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurochemical factors likely contributes. Imagine experiencing a reality altered by others. Symptoms typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood.
Some symptoms involve distortions of normal functioning. You might experience hallucinations, hearing voices, or seeing things that aren't there. You may be unable to express emotions, engage in social interactions, or maintain personal hygiene. You might also struggle with organizing thoughts, concentrating, or making decisions.
Causes often involve a genetic predisposition, as schizophrenia runs in families. Stressful life events, drug use, and abnormal brain structure or chemistry can trigger its onset
Common symptoms of schizophrenia:
- Delusions are when someone believes in something that isn’t true. For example, someone might believe they have a special power or they may believe that people are out to get them. It is delusional to think that your thoughts are being broadcast to others or that the person serving your coffee is poisoning it.
- Hallucinations occur when someone hears, sees, smells, or feels something that others don’t. A person might hear sounds or talking that is not there or see people or other things that don’t exist. Auditory hallucinations are the most common in schizophrenia.
- Disorganized speech and thinking refers to speech that is jumbled and does not make sense to others. More specifically they may use unusual word choice or may use words incorrectly. They may even make up words.
Additionally, there can be negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Negative symptoms include lacking emotion or being flat, avoiding friends and family, loss of interest in activities, inability to complete daily tasks, and difficulty holding a conversation.
Schizophrenia exists on a continuum based on the length and severity of symptoms. The symptoms can be managed with medication for most people. Symptoms will be under better control if treatment is sought as soon as symptoms begin.
