It is estimated that approximately 2.8 million adults in the United States are affected by schizophrenia, a chronic and severe neurological brain disorder in which one interprets reality abnormally. Those diagnosed with the condition experience a combination of hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking or speech that impairs their daily function. Even more concerning is that as many as 40 percent of those with schizophrenia go untreated in any given year.
Schizophrenia symptoms typically start in the early to mid-20s in men, the late 20s in women, and rarely in those older than 45 and in children. It is diagnosed by undergoing a physical examination, tests, and screenings to rule out other symptomatic disorders (such as substance abuse, medication, or a medical condition), and a psychiatric evaluation by a mental health professional.
Those with schizophrenia require lifelong treatment. Fortunately, however, early diagnosis and schizophrenia treatment can help you or a loved one manage symptoms and improve your long-term outlook before serious complications develop.
Treatment Options for Schizophrenia
There are several different types of schizophrenia – including paranoid, disorganized, catatonic, residual, undifferentiated schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder – and they can affect people in different ways. What they all have in common is that they can significantly disrupt one’s life, relationships, and ability to sustain a livelihood.
For the most part, schizophrenia can be treated with medications and psychosocial therapy, although in some cases, hospitalization may be necessary. A psychiatrist experienced in treating the condition usually guides the therapy, sometimes assisted by a team that may include a psychologist, social worker, psychiatric nurse, and a case manager who coordinates care. Depending on the individual case, treatment options for schizophrenia may include:
- Medications–Antipsychotic medications that control schizophrenia symptoms by affecting the brain neurotransmitter dopamine are the most commonly prescribed drugs. Second-generation medications are preferred by mental health professionals since they pose a lower risk of serious side effects. Other medications, such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs, may also be prescribed over time to achieve the desired result. In any case, it may take several weeks of medication before an improvement in symptoms is noticed. You should ask your doctor about the benefits and side effects of any drug that is prescribed.
- Psychosocial intervention– Once schizophrenia symptoms develop, it is important to supplement medication with psychological and social therapy. Various forms of psychosocial intervention include:
- Individual psychotherapy. This can help normalize one’s thought patterns, as well as help them learn to cope with stress and identify early warning signs of relapse.
- Social skills training. The goal here is to improve communication and social interactions, as well as one’s ability to participate in daily activities.
- Family therapy. This is designed to provide education and support to families dealing with schizophrenia.
- Supported employment and vocational rehabilitation. Like most people, individuals with schizophrenia need to find and maintain a job. With the help of a case manager or other members of a treatment team, these programs also enable them to find housing, self-help groups, and ways to deal with crisis situations.
- Hospitalization–During a crisis situation or when symptoms become severe, those with schizophrenia may need to be hospitalized to ensure their safety, proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and basic hygiene.
- Electroconvulsive therapy(ECT) –This is an alternative for adults with schizophrenia who do not respond to drug therapy and may also be helpful for someone diagnosed with depression.
Schizophrenia Treatment in White Plains, New York
At Psyhance, we treat schizophrenia and associated disorders with integrative and innovative psychiatric approaches. We are a specialized psychiatric practice that has experienced, licensed, and dedicated professionals who partner with patients to create and implement tailored treatment plans that help them cope and move beyond their mental health problems. Regardless of the type of schizophrenia you are facing, our dedicated and highly trained team can provide you with the quality medical and psychiatric care that you need.
To get started on the road to improved wellness, email us today at s.lahlou@psyhance.com to request an appointment.