Is it schizophrenia? How to recognize and support people with schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is one of the more serious mental disorders that still raises many misunderstandings and fears. Many sufferers and their loved ones fear stigma, which often leads to avoiding social contact and postponing treatment. Meanwhile, early diagnosis and appropriate therapy can help sufferers lead fulfilling lives. What are the symptoms of schizophrenia and how to support people affected by it?.

Schizophrenia - what is it?

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder that affects the way people think, feel and behave. The first symptoms usually appear before the age of 30. There are two main groups of symptoms of schizophrenia:

• Positive symptoms -these include delusions, hallucinations (e.g., hearing voices), thought disturbances and behavioral disorganization. They are relatively easy to spot.

• Negative symptoms - include social withdrawal, decreased motivation, difficulty expressing emotions. They may be less visible, but significantly affect the patient's daily functioning.

How is schizophrenia diagnosed?

The basis for the diagnosis of schizophrenia is a psychiatric consultation. The doctor takes a detailed history, analyzes the patient's behavior and evaluates emerging symptoms. In some cases, neuropsychological tests assessing cognitive function may be helpful.

What is the treatment of schizophrenia?

Although schizophrenia is a chronic disease, properly selected therapy can significantly improve patients' quality of life. Treatment includes several key elements:

• Pharmacotherapy - the primary method is the use of antipsychotic drugs (neuroleptics), which help control symptoms.

• Psychotherapy - supports the patient in coping with the disease, and also helps the patient learn to function in society.

• Psychoeducation - provides the patient and his relatives with knowledge about the disease and how to control it.

• Occupational therapy - helps the person with the disease maintain life activities and improve social skills.

• Hospitalization - in situations of exacerbation of symptoms or life and health emergencies, a stay in a psychiatric hospital may be necessary.

Is schizophrenia treatable?

Each case of schizophrenia progresses differently. Some patients, with proper treatment, can lead stable lives and even wean off their medications, while others need lifelong therapy. Early diagnosis and systematic treatment are crucial.

How to support a person with schizophrenia?

Support from loved ones plays an important role in the healing process. Here are some principles that can help:

• Be patient - schizophrenia is a chronic disease that requires time and systematic treatment.

• Avoid judging and criticizing -instead, show understanding and willingness to talk.

• Support regular treatment - encourage medication and attendance at therapy.

• Educate yourself - gaining knowledge about schizophrenia will help you better understand your loved one's situation.

Early diagnosis of schizophrenia and appropriate treatment can significantly improve a patient's quality of life. If you notice alarming symptoms in yourself or a loved one, do not delay in consulting a specialist. Schizophrenia is an illness that can be lived with - provided it is properly treated and accepted by both the patient and those around him.

Schizophrenia - help at CPP Professional Assistance Center

Schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder that affects thinking, emotions and perception of reality. If you or a loved one is struggling with its symptoms, you are not alone..

Effective assistance .

We offer comprehensive psychiatric and psychotherapeutic support. Our specialists help stabilize symptoms and improve the quality of life of patients.

Individual approach .

Treatment of schizophrenia requires a tailored therapeutic plan, combining pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy. Together, we will find the best solution.

Safe space .

We provide full confidentiality and comfort in therapy - stationary in Warsaw, Krakow and Wroclaw and online.