Schizophrenia
A Disassociative Personality Disorder
What is schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a psychological disorder that alters the way a person feels, thinks, and sees the world. It often dramatically alters a persons sense of reality. The disorder is characterized by five main symptoms: delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, disorganized behavior, and the other “negative” symptoms.
What causes schizophrenia?
Although there is no direct cause for the disorder, psychologists know that the disorder is genetic. "First degree" relatives of schizophrenia patients have a 10% risk of inheriting the disease. There isn't an actual "schizophrenia gene," rather a collection of genetic mutations that make a person more likely to develop the illness.
What are the Odds?
Schizophrenia is one of the most commonly diagnosed serious personality disorders. 1 in every 100 people will be diagnosed with a form of schizophrenia, and the diagnosis will usually occur between the ages of 15 and 35.
What can I do?
Talk to a doctor. A psychologist will ask you some questions in order to get a better understanding of what you are going through. After listening to and analyzing your symptoms, your doctor will determine whether or not a diagnosis is necessary. If you are diagnosed with schizophrenia, you will likely be treated with a combination of medication and therapy to help get your brain on the path to good health.
-10% of those affected will attempt suicide or abuse substances
-In some cultures schizophrenia is seen is a religious ailment- "possessed by a demon."
-schizophrenia is sometime diagnosed in children
National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Schizophrenia. Retrieved January 13, 2016, from http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/schizophrenia/index.shtml
Web MD. (n.d.). Schizophrenia Center: Types, Symptoms, Medications, Causes, and Tests. Retrieved January 13, 2016, from http://www.webmd.com/schizophrenia/