Understanding Schizophrenia

UNDERSTANDING SCHIZOPHRENIA

The subject in this photo is a model for illustrative purposes only.

Schizophrenia Is a serious mental
disorder in which people interpret reality
abnormally—resulting In a combination of
hallucinations, delusions, and exaggerated
or irrational thinking and behavior. Less
than one percent of people In the United
States suffer from this illness.

When people first experience symptoms
and episodes, they are often in denial that
they are sick. They may be unaware that
they re showing signs of schizophrenic
behavior. Schizophrenia can be disruptive in
many ways, making It difficult to socialize,
maintain a regular schedule, work, and
keep relationships.

Symptoms of schizophrenia can change in type and severity over time and involve a combination of:

Delusions:

false beliefs that are not based in reality

Hallucinations:
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Extremely disorganized or
abnormal physical behavior:
resistance to Instructions,
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posture, a complete lack of
response, childlike silliness,
unpredictable agitation, or useless
and excessive movement

Disorganized thinking and speech:
Impaired communication, such as answers
that may be partially or completely

unrelated to questions or a conversation

Negative symptoms:

reduced or lack of ability to function
normally, such as not paying attention
to personal hygiene

Suicidal thoughts and behavior
el eaere} al aalelamelaaierare people
with schizophrenia.

SAMHSA’‘s mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America’s communities. , AM 4

1-877-SAMHSA-7 (1-877-726-4727) + 1-800-487-4889 (TDD)

* www.samhsSa.gov

Substance Abuse and Mental Health
Services Administration

Medication and therapy can help manage schizophrenia. The sooner treatment begins, the higher likelihood there
is for improvement and recovery. However, people with schizophrenia require lifelong treatment, even when

symptoms are less severe.

MEDICATION:

Antipsychotic medications help get
symptoms under control. It may be
necessary for a psychiatrist to try different
medications at different doses to find the
right combination. It can take several weeks
to notice an improvement in symptoms.

If experiencing periods of crisis,
hospitalization may be needed to ensure
Safety, proper nutrition, adequate sleep,
nd basic hygiene.

For people who do not respond to
medication, electroconvulsive therapy
(ECT) may an option. ECT is a brain
stimulation technique in which small
electric currents are passed through
the brain to quickly ease the symptoms
of schizophrenia.

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The subject in this photo is a model for illustrative purpose

PSYCHOSOCIAL THERAPY AND TRAINING:

In addition to medication, therapy and support are important:

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Individual therapy Social skills Family therapy Vocational
helps normalize training improves provides support rehabilitation
thought patterns. communication and and education to and supported
social interactions. families dealing employment
with schizophrenia. help people find

and keep jobs.

If you or someone you know has schizophrenia, these resources can help. Visit SAMHSA’s Early Serious Mental
Treatment Locator and Behavioral Health Treatment Locator at SAMHSA.gov. Or, call SAMHSA’s National
Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or 1-800-487-4889 (TDD).

Learn more at SAMHSA.gov/Serious-Mental-Illness

SAMHSA’‘s mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America’s communities. , AM J

1-877-SAMHSA-7 [1-877-726-4727] - 1-800-487-4889 (TDD) - www.samhsa.gov

Substance Abuse and Mental Health
Services Administration