Schizophrenia

SymptomsAccording to the DSM-IV, Schizophrenia is a mental disorder characterized by delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, incoherence, disorganized or catatonic behavior, as well as negative symptoms.

SubtypesThe two subtypes of schizophrenia include paranoid and disorganized. Paranoid schizophrenia is characterized by delusions and thoughts that others may be conspiring against you. Disorganized schizophrenia is characterized by nonsensical thought and cognitive impairment.

Causes Schizophrenia is often hereditary and runs in families. It is an inherited trait and is often associated with various other genetic mutations. People with schizophrenic parents or siblings have a 10% chance of developing it. Environmental factors prior to birth may also cause schizophrenia.

Treatment Treatment of schizophrenia often involves various medications, mainly through selective serotonic reuptake inhibitors (SSRI's). These include medications such as Proxac, Zoloft, and Lexapro. Treatment may also involve cognitive therapies and electroconvulsive (shock) therapies.

Mechanism of Action Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI's) are anti-depressants which work by blocking the reabsorption of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain, effectively boosting mood and reducing anxiety.

Emil Kraepelin (1856-1926)

Discovered schizophrenia, manic depression, co-discovered Alzheimer's disease, and pioneered the humane treatment of psychiatric patients He is often regarded as .the founder of modern clinical psychology.

Links

An Overview of Schizophrenia

Treatment and Therapies

Causes and Heredity

Auditory Hallucinations