Schizophrenia

The exact causes of schizophrenia are not fully understood, but a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors is believed to contribute. Family history, chemical imbalances in the brain, and certain life experiences, such as trauma or substance abuse, may increase the risk of developing schizophrenia.

Symptoms

Schizophrenia can affect a person’s thinking, emotions, and behaviour. Symptoms can vary but generally fall into three categories: positive, negative, and cognitive symptoms.

• Positive Symptoms: These include hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there), delusions (false beliefs), and disorganised thinking or speech.
• Negative Symptoms: These include reduced motivation, lack of interest in activities, social withdrawal, and emotional flatness.
• Cognitive Symptoms: These may involve difficulties with memory, concentration, and decision-making.

Symptoms can range in severity and may come and go in phases, with periods of more intense episodes followed by periods of stability.

Medical and Descriptive Terms

1. Psychosis Spectrum Disorder – Emphasizes the spectrum nature of psychotic symptoms.
2. Dopamine Dysregulation Disorder – Focuses on the neurochemical imbalances often involved.
3. Thought Disorder – Highlights disruptions in thought processes.
4. Neuropsychiatric Disorder – Describes it as a condition affecting both neurological and psychiatric functions.
5. Functional Psychosis – Refers to psychosis without a known organic cause.
6. Severe Mental Illness (SMI) – A broader term encompassing schizophrenia and similar disorders.

Colloquial or Person-First Language

1. Experiencing Psychosis – Focuses on symptoms rather than labeling.
2. Mental Health Condition – Generalized and less stigmatizing.
3. Chronic Mental Health Disorder – Recognizes the ongoing nature.
4. Living with Schizophrenia – Emphasizes the person rather than the condition.

Alternative Frameworks

• Hearing Voices – Used when symptoms include auditory hallucinations.
• Altered Perception Disorder – Describes changes in perception and reality.
• Disorganised Thinking Disorder – Focuses on cognitive symptoms.

It’s worth noting that renaming schizophrenia officially has been discussed in some countries to address stigma, but as of now, the term remains widely used in clinical practice.

Coping Strategies

• Stay Organised: Create routines to keep track of daily activities and medication schedules.
• Focus on Self-Care: Prioritise sleep, balanced nutrition, and exercise to maintain overall health.
• Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family members, or carers who can help during difficult times.
• Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness exercises can help you stay grounded and reduce stress.
• Set Small Goals: Breaking tasks into manageable steps can help maintain a sense of accomplishment and avoid overwhelm.

Where to Find Help

• Rethink Mental Illness: This UK-based charity provides support and resources for those affected by schizophrenia and other mental health conditions.
• Therapy and Counselling: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches can help manage symptoms and improve coping skills.
• Medication: Antipsychotic medications, prescribed by a doctor, can help reduce symptoms like hallucinations and delusions.
• Support Groups: Peer support groups provide an understanding community where individuals can share experiences and coping techniques.