Schizophrenia is a disorder where people interpret reality in an abnormal way. It can result in extremely disordered thinking and behaviour that can impair daily functioning significantly.
Schizophrenia often experiences considerable stigma in the community, which can add to the burden of the condition and quality of life. There are many myths about Schizophrenia including people having a ‘split personality’ or are violent or dangerous. These assumptions are vastly untrue and are demoralising to the individual.
The exact cause of schizophrenia is not known, however certain factors can increase the risk of developing Schizophrenia. These include:
There are 3 main categories of symptoms that people with Schizophrenia typically display.
These are things that add to normal mental functioning and negatively impact on sense of reality. These include: Hallucinations or Delusions
These are things that are often absent from peoples life as a result of the condition. These can include loss of motivation and interest in daily activities, neglecting personal hygiene, appearance of lacking emotion such as eye contact, lacking facial expressions or speaking in monotone
This includes disorganised thinking and speech. People may also have trouble paying attention, concentrating, and remembering things. People may also experience abnormal motor behaviours. In extreme cases, people may have catatonic behaviour including not moving much or at all, or refusing to do things or speak.
If not treated, schizophrenia can result in severe problems that affect every aspect of daily life. Complications that can be associated include:
Diagnose requires the symptoms to be present for 6 months or more. They also need to be severe enough to cause negatively impact on functioning at work, school, home or socially.
People can have a diagnosis of psychosis which is similar to Schizophrenia, however the symptoms are less severe or have been present for a shorter period of time. This can be a one-off event or can go on to develop schizophrenia at a later date.
People with schizophrenia require lifelong treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment has been shown to have better long term outcomes. Treatment options include:
Treatment for Schizophrenia can come with side effects that can be extremely debilitating and impact negatively on health and wellbeing i.e. weight gain. Side affects are the most common cause of people not taking medication regularly. It is imperative that people work with their practitioners and support team to work through these concerns in a safe and effective way.
If you have any concerns, it is essential you discuss these with your trusted GP. Basic assessments can be performed and referral to a specialist such as a Psychiatrist will be made.
Suicidal thoughts and attempts are common amongst people with schizophrenia. If you have a loved one who is in danger of this, ensure someone stays with them and call OOO.
In Queensland your local ACT (Acute Care Team) can be contacted if a person or their loved one is deteriorating and you are concerned. The Gold Coast ACT team can be contacted on 1300 642 255
See below for some useful links:
My Lotus Care Group supports a number of families living with ASD We provide support and education for families including:
To find out more please contact info@mylotus.com.au.
Lotus Disability Care is able to assist their participants to connect with a variety of allied Health services.