Schizophrenia

Origin of the term “Schizophrenia”?

• Origin of the term: Derived from Greek words skhizo (split) and phren (mind).

What is the cause and impact of Schizophrenia?

• Causes: The exact cause remains unclear, but it's likely the result of a complex interaction of genetic and environmental factors.

  • Causes of Schizophrenia: Likely caused by a combination of factors:

    • Genetic predisposition

    • Biochemical dysfunction

    • Physiological factors

    • Psychosocial stress

• Impact: Schizophrenia requires a comprehensive, multidisciplinary treatment approach.

  • Causes lengthy hospitalizations, chaos in family life, high costs, and societal fears.

Define Schizophrenia

• Schizophrenia: A mental disorder marked by abnormal social behavior and an inability to recognize what is re

Symptoms of Schizophrenia

• Symptoms:

  • False beliefs (Delusions)

  • Unclear or confused thinking

  • Auditory hallucinations

  • Reduced social engagement

  • Reduced emotional expression

  • Inactivity

What are the challenges of Schizophrenia?

• Schizophrenia makes it difficult for individuals to distinguish between reality and unreality, think clearly, manage emotions, relate to others, and function in daily life.

How is schizophrenia diagnosed?

• Diagnosis: Primarily based on:

  • Observed behavior

  • Reported experiences

What is schizophrenia refered as? What is the chronic nature?

• Schizophrenia is often catastrophic and profoundly disabling.

  • Chronic nature: Tends to persist over time.

  • Suicide risk: 10% suicide rate.

  • Referred to as the "cancer of mental illness."

  • Characterized by a deteriorating personality, not one that changes over time.

Genetic Factors of Schizophrenia

• Genetic factors:

  • Strong hereditary link.

  • Individuals with a first-degree relative (parent or sibling) who has schizophrenia have a 10% chance of developing the disorder.

Environmental Factors of Schizophrenia

• Environmental factors:

  • Research points to stress during pregnancy or later stages of development.

  • High levels of stress are believed to trigger schizophrenia by increasing the body’s cortisol production.

Symptoms of Schizophrenia

Delusions, hallucinations, confusion, reduced social engagement, and emotional expression.

What type of treatment does schizophrenia require?

multidisciplinary treatment

Mnemonic for Schizophrenia Symptoms: SAD LIE

• S: Social disengagement

• A: Auditory hallucinations

• D: Delusions (false beliefs)

• L: Lack of emotional expression

• I: Inactivity

• E: Emotional management difficulty