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Schizophrenia Psychosis - a split from reality, whereby hallucinations and delusions are experienced Schizophrenia and Bi-polar Disorder are types of psychosis Schizophrenia Definition • A disturbance involving delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech and/or disorganized or catatonic behaviour. A deterioration of a person’s ability to function at work, school and/or socially also occurs. Prevalence • 1 in 100 people (twice as common as Alzheimer’s) Early Warning Signs • withdrawl from activities and social contacts • sleep disturbances • irrational, angry or fearful responses to friends and family • hearing voices or seeing people that others don’t see • deterioration of personal hygiene • sudden excesses (such as extreme religiosity or extreme activity) • paranoia and mood swings • inappropriate use of language (words don’t make sense) Diagnosis • long and difficult process - a series of tests is done to rule out other causes of the symptoms (ie. drug use or a brain tumour) • symptoms must be continuous for at least 6 months Causes • we don’t know the cause • genetics, structural brain abnormalities, an abundance of dopamine, prenatal factors, and factors during pregnancy all may play a part Treatment • mainly treated with medication and counselling • drugs are successful in 80-90% of patients if they keep taking them • ECT is used in only the most severe cases Effects on Individuals, Families and Society • can be very difficult to live with • families can feel guilt or burdened • it is estimated that $4 billion is spent in Canada annually on treating schizophrenia and its effects • but with proper medication and support quality of life can be good! Schizophrenia Summary • it’s a brain disease • the age of onset is usually between 15 and 25 years • the cause is not fully understood • like most mental illness, it is treatable with medication (but not “curable”) • it is relatively common (1 in 100) • early intervention is key to reducing symptoms and improving quality of life Reputable Websites for Further Info www.schizophrenia.ca www.mentalhealth.com www.openthedoors.com