Alester Brown

Who Can Get Schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is an often misunderstood condition. Due to fantastical depictions of the disorder in media, few understand how it truly affects people. Schizophrenia is a lifelong brain disorder that can affect individuals in many unique ways. Find hope, guidance and help for schizophrenia. Visit this website for compassionate support and resources.

At its core, schizophrenia interferes with a person's thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Its effects can vary, but many will experience hallucinations, distorted thoughts, paranoia, delusions and more. Some will also hear voices or hold firm beliefs that others might find irrational.

This form of psychosis affects men and women equally. However, men and women typically seek help for schizophrenia at different ages due to how the symptoms develop. In men, it can occur during the late teens or early 20s. Women can show symptoms in their late 20s or early 30s.

How Common is Schizophrenia?

This condition is relatively rare, affecting roughly one percent of the general population. Those who have a family history have a higher risk of schizophrenia. It occurs in about 10 percent of people who have a first-degree relative (parent or sibling) with the disorder. Those who have a second-degree relative (aunts, uncles, grandparents or half-siblings) with schizophrenia also have a higher risk of developing the condition than the general population.

What are the Symptoms?

It's not until symptoms appear that loved ones often urge individuals to get help for schizophrenia. The condition can manifest in many ways, but one of the most common signs is a sudden shift in personality and behavior. Individuals often "disconnect" from reality. They may have psychotic episodes where they're unable to differentiate what's real and what isn't.

That may accompany noticeable changes in interpersonal skills or communication. Cognitive function can decline, making remembering small details or solving simple problems difficult. Attention levels can also plummet.

This condition shares many symptoms with depression or bipolar disorder. However, schizophrenia can worsen over time without treatment. The symptoms can also change, leading to unpredictable behavior and more psychotic episodes.

If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, it's important to contact professionals for diagnosis and care.

Author Resource:-

Alester Brown writes about physiotherapy. She advises people on health care, online therapy, anxiety discussion groups & depression message boards. You can find her thoughts at depression forum blog.