Schizophrenia is a chronic mental health disorder that is widely misunderstood. Common misconceptions and stereotypes often portray people with schizophrenia as dangerous, unproductive, and unable to live independently. Unfortunately, this stigma prevents many people from seeking much-needed treatment that could dramatically improve their quality of life.
With the right medication, psychotherapy, and social support, people with schizophrenia can successfully manage their condition – but the key to effective treatment is early diagnosis. Understanding the nature of how schizophrenia develops can help you identify preliminary signs and symptoms of the disease before it progresses, increasing your chances of a positive outcome.
The Average Age of Schizophrenia Diagnosis
The majority of people with schizophrenia are diagnosed in their late teens to early thirties, with initial symptoms most often showing up in adolescence. While scientists don’t know for certain why the teenage years are so significant to the onset of schizophrenia, one theory ties it to puberty. At its core, schizophrenia is a disorder of the brain, both structurally and chemically, and the hormonal changes that occur during puberty impact brain development. During adolescence, environmental factors or genetic predisposition can trigger the early phase of the disease.
The Prodromal Phase of Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is most commonly associated with psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. However, psychosis generally does not appear until the second phase of schizophrenia, known as the acute or active phase. Less obvious symptoms begin far earlier in the first phase, known as the prodrome.
Studies have shown that approximately 75% of patients with schizophrenia experience a prodromal phase, which can last anywhere from a few weeks to several years, with symptoms progressing over time. Obtaining a diagnosis in this phase improves the chances of finding effective treatment, so people who are at risk of developing schizophrenia – such as those with a family history of the disease – should seek care if they experience prodromal symptoms.
Early Signs and Symptoms of Schizophrenia
Many people dismiss the early symptoms of schizophrenia because they bear a striking resemblance to the normal developmental changes that occur in adolescence. They’re also often chalked up to side effects of stress. However, if you show any of the following symptoms and have a genetic predisposition to schizophrenia, it’s important to see a doctor right away.
Early signs of schizophrenia include:
- Difficulty paying attention, staying focused, or remembering things
- Mood swings, including depression
- Anxiety
- Feelings of guilt or suspicion
- Lethargy
- Loss of interest in once-beloved activities
- Social withdrawal
Getting Treatment for Schizophrenia
Treatment for schizophrenia varies based on your specific symptoms and situation. After your doctor completes a thorough exam and delivers a diagnosis, your treatment plan may consist of the following:
- Medication
Antipsychotic drugs are effective in preventing psychotic episodes and are the most commonly prescribed medication for treating schizophrenia. Teens and young adults who are diagnosed in the prodromal phase may also benefit from taking antidepressants.
- Therapy
Meeting with psychologists and counselors for individual therapy sessions can help you learn to control your thought patterns, identify signs of a relapse, and deal with the stress of your diagnosis.
- Social support
Many people with schizophrenia need assistance in navigating their school or work environments. Specialized training programs can help patients to improve their communication skills and grow comfortable in social interactions.
Schizophrenia Treatment at Alvarado Parkway Institute in San Diego
If you or someone you love is exhibiting the signs of schizophrenia, Alvarado Parkway Institute in San Diego can deliver the high-quality compassionate care you need to manage your symptoms. We offer a customized, multi-pronged approach to schizophrenia treatment, and our residential inpatient facility provides round-the-clock support. When symptoms improve, we provide aftercare planning services to help you build a full, productive, and independent life.
For more information on our schizophrenia treatment program, call us at (619) 485-1432.
