Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia, which can become debilitating if left untreated, affects 221 in every 100,000 people worldwide. At Amazing Behavioral Health Services, LLC, in Parkville and Catonsville, Maryland, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and doctor of nursing Catherine Nwah, PMHNP-BC, DNP, and the team diagnose and treat schizophrenia to dramatically improve your quality of life. Schedule an in-person or telehealth evaluation by phone or request one online today.

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a mental health concern that affects your ability to properly interpret reality. It can cause you to develop delusions, hallucinations, disordered thinking, or other symptoms that can become disabling and impair daily functioning. 

If you suspect you or a loved one has schizophrenia, see the Amazing Behavioral Health Services, LLC, experts as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment can reduce the risk of serious complications.

Which symptoms can schizophrenia cause?

Schizophrenia can lead to:

• Cognitive impairments
• Hallucinations (seeing things that aren’t there)
• Delusions (false beliefs)
• Abnormal speech, thinking, or behavior
• Disorganization 
• Child-like silliness
• Agitation
• Inappropriate behavior patterns
• Bizarre posture
• Excessive movement
• Lack of emotion
• Social withdrawal
• Poor work or school performance 
• Lack of motivation 
• Depression
• Anxiety

People diagnosed with schizophrenia might neglect their personal hygiene, speak in a monotone voice, avoid eye contact, or lack facial expressions. These symptoms could range in severity from mild to severe and be constant or come and go.

Schizophrenia typically develops in men in their early or mid-20s, while symptoms often appear in women in their late 20s.

What may increase the risk of schizophrenia?

The cause of schizophrenia isn’t clear, but it could develop because of brain chemistry changes, genetics, environmental factors, or a combination of reasons. Risk factors include a family history of schizophrenia, pregnancy issues (toxin exposure or malnutrition), and taking mind-altering drugs. 

Examples of potential complications associated with untreated schizophrenia are being victimized, aggressive behavior, medical problems, suicidal thoughts or actions, and substance misuse. You might not be able to work, attend school, or experience financial stability if schizophrenia isn’t addressed by a professional.

You can’t necessarily prevent schizophrenia, but treatment reduces the risk of further problems and worsening symptoms. 

How is schizophrenia diagnosed?

The Amazing Behavioral Health Services, LLC, team uses a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to diagnose schizophrenia. They ask questions about your behaviors, thoughts, emotions, moods, symptoms, medications, and more. Your specialist might also ask your loved ones questions. 

How is schizophrenia treated?

Treating schizophrenia involves psychotherapy, medication management, and a combination of treatments. You meet with an Amazing Behavioral Health Services, LLC, provider in person or virtually for therapy sessions. 

Amazing Behavioral Health Services, LLC, offers social skills training, family and individual therapies, career support resources, and more to overcome schizophrenia-related barriers and live a successful, fulfilling life.

Schedule an in-person or telehealth schizophrenia evaluation at Amazing Behavioral Health Services, LLC, by phone or request one online today.