Schizophrenia

About 1% of Americans have schizophrenia, but this condition can cause severe concerns when left untreated. At Cecilia Medical Center in Ellicott City, Maryland, the highly trained team diagnoses and treats people with schizophrenia to reduce symptoms and support a better quality of life. Schedule an evaluation by calling the Cecilia Medical Center office or booking an in-person or telehealth appointment online today.

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a mental health condition affecting thoughts and behaviors. It’s characterized by delusions (false beliefs) and hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there). It can cause someone diagnosed with schizophrenia to lose touch with reality. Left untreated, schizophrenia can make activities of daily living difficult. 

See the experts at Cecilia Medical Center if you experience signs of schizophrenia or have a diagnosis and need help managing your condition. 

What are the symptoms of schizophrenia? 

Symptoms of schizophrenia include:

• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Disorganized thoughts or speech
• Unusual movements
• Paranoia 
• Poor daily functioning skills
• Child-like silliness
• Poor personal hygiene habits
• Poor eye contact
• Not showing emotions
• Speaking in a monotone voice
• Frequent agitation 
• Poor planning
• Social withdrawal
• Poor school or work performance
• Trouble sleeping
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Lack of motivation 
• Thoughts of suicide
• Getting bullied 
• Money problems
• Drug misuse
• Violent or aggressive behaviors 

People with schizophrenia might not behave appropriately in social settings. Symptoms vary in severity and may get better or worse over time. 

What may increase the risk of schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia risk factors can include:

• Family history of mental health disorders
• Brain chemistry changes
• Issues during brain development
• Living in poverty or dangerous situations 
• Stress
• Problems during pregnancy
• Low birth weight
• Toxin exposure before birth
• Using mind-altering drugs

However, the cause of schizophrenia isn’t entirely known. There’s no surefire way to prevent it, but treatment can offer symptom relief.

How is schizophrenia diagnosed?

The experts at Cecilia Medical Center diagnose schizophrenia by reviewing your medical history, symptoms, medications, and lifestyle. They assess your emotions, moods, thoughts, and behaviors using DSM-5 criteria to determine if you have schizophrenia or another mental health disorder and how to best care for you. 

How is schizophrenia treated?

Your personalized schizophrenia treatment plan may consist of:

• Lifestyle changes
• Social support
• Medication management
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Other forms of psychotherapy
• Family therapy 
• Social skills training
• Vocational rehabilitation and supported employment
• Social service referrals
• Support groups

It’s also helpful to sleep enough, maintain a social support network, avoid drugs and alcohol, minimize stress, stay active, and eat a balanced diet.

Schedule an in-person or virtual schizophrenia evaluation at Cecilia Medical Center by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.