When most people think of mental illnesses, schizophrenia is often one of the first conditions that come to mind. But what is schizophrenia really? Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness affecting how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It can be very disabling and significantly reduce a person’s quality of life. Despite this, many people with schizophrenia live successful lives when they receive appropriate treatment.
Let’s talk about what schizophrenia involves, its symptoms, and where you can go for the treatment of schizophrenia in Sherman, TX.
There Are Three Stages of Schizophrenia – Early, Middle, and Late
Schizophrenia is a mental disorder that affects a person’s ability to think clearly, manage emotions, make decisions, and relate to others. The disorder can cause many symptoms, including delusions, hallucinations, disordered thinking, and erratic behavior. Schizophrenia typically develops in late adolescence or early adulthood and is considered a chronic condition.
The course of the disorder can be divided into three stages: early, middle, and late. Early-stage schizophrenia is characterized by the onset of psychotic symptoms. Middle-stage schizophrenia is characterized by more persistent psychotic symptoms and social and occupational deficits. Late-stage schizophrenia is characterized by further deterioration in functioning and an increased risk for suicide and self-harm.
Early Stage
The development of schizophrenia is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. In the early stages of the disorder, people may experience changes in their sleep patterns, appetite, and energy level. They may also have difficulty concentrating or remembering things.
As the condition progresses, they may start to have hallucinations or delusions. People with schizophrenia may withdraw from friends and family and become increasingly isolated. Some people with the disorder may also attempt to self-harm or hurt others.
Middle Stage
The middle stage of schizophrenia is characterized by a decline in functioning. This may include problems with work, school, or social activities.
People in this stage may also have difficulty taking care of themselves and may develop unhealthy habits, such as smoking or not eating healthy foods. Additionally, they may become withdrawn and isolate themselves from others.
The symptoms of schizophrenia can vary from person to person, but the middle stage is generally when the most serious symptoms emerge. If left untreated, the decline in functioning can lead to homelessness, unemployment, and incarceration.
Late Stage
In the late stages of schizophrenia, patients may become withdrawn and isolate themselves from others. They may stop speaking or responding to stimuli, and their behavior may become increasingly erratic.
Patients may also suffer from hallucinations and delusions, which can be highly distressing. In some cases, patients may become violent or pose a threat to themselves or others. Treatment at this stage is typically focused on managing symptoms and keeping patients safe.
Medication, therapy, and support from family and friends can help patients in the late stages of schizophrenia cope with their condition and minimize the impact on their lives.
Schizophrenia Treatment in Sherman, TX
If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health disorder, visit us at Carrus Behavioral Health Hospital. Our team is equipped with highly experienced physicians to ensure the availability of the best therapies for our patients. Carrus Behavioral Hospital offers evidence-based therapeutic approaches for various conditions like ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, PTSD, anger management, cognitive behavioral therapy, and much more. We would be happy to help you get your life back on track.
To know more about our services or schedule a consultation, call us today at (903) 870-1202 or request an appointment online.