What is Schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a mental health disorder that causes severe and distressing changes to the way a person perceives reality. The disorder, which is usually diagnosed during the first few decades of life, can be debilitating. Men often begin displaying symptoms of schizophrenia earlier than women.
Causes of Schizophrenia
Different things can trigger the onset of schizophrenia. However, researchers have narrowed it down to a few factors.
Genetics
It’s known that schizophrenia runs in families. There isn’t a single gene that guarantees that someone will develop the disorder though. However, there are a variety of genes that can increase a person’s risk. At this time, doctors are unable to predict whether a child will develop the disorder by testing genetics. This might be a possibility in the future though as researchers continue to examine the various contributing genetic factors that can cause a person to develop schizophrenia.
Trauma and Other Environmental Factors
If someone has genetic factors that make them more susceptible to developing schizophrenia, environmental issues may be more likely to trigger the disorder.
Some of the traumatic factors that may play a role in the development of schizophrenia include:
- Living in poverty
- Experiencing ongoing stress or violence
- Exposure to certain viral infections while in the womb
- Suffering from malnutrition as a fetus
Scientists believe it’s the interplay between trauma and genetics that can cause schizophrenia. That said, it’s possible to develop schizophrenia even without a traumatic past.
Brain Chemistry and Structure
Brain structure is another important area of research that relates to schizophrenia. The human brain operates using neurotransmitters, which are essentially chemical messengers.
Researchers have discovered profound differences in neurotransmitter behavior, brain connections, and other aspects of brain functionality in patients with schizophrenia.
It’s believed that these changes in the brain occur prior to birth. When the person reaches adolescence and begins experiencing the chemical and hormonal changes of puberty, the first of the psychotic episodes often begin.
Past Substance Abuse
Abusing substances does not directly cause schizophrenia. Nonetheless, it can trigger an earlier onset of schizophrenia symptoms in those who are genetically predisposed to developing the disorder. Past substance abuse can also increase the risk of developing schizophrenia in the first place.
Research shows that teens and young adults who abuse cannabis are more likely to develop schizophrenia later on in life. Other drugs that can increase the risk of developing schizophrenia include cocaine, amphetamines, and LSD. These drugs can both trigger and worsen the condition of schizophrenia.
The Symptoms
Schizophrenia often comes on gradually. A number of minor schizophrenia symptoms may present prior to the first major psychotic episode.
Cognitive Difficulties
Someone in the early stages of schizophrenia may struggle with focus or memory. These symptoms may also continue or worsen as the condition develops. Some people with schizophrenia even experience minor cognitive struggles. For others, these problems are intense and disrupting.
Someone with schizophrenia may struggle to focus on conversations, remember things, or make decisions. Processing information may begin to feel difficult. In some schizophrenic patients, issues with motor control may also develop.
Struggles with Depression
The symptoms of schizophrenia can mimic those of depression. For example, people that suffer from schizophrenia may lose motivation to partake in activities that they once enjoyed. They may withdraw socially, struggle with personal hygiene, and generally feel “flat.”
Some people find it difficult to speak or even make eye contact with others. They may also be unable to plan activities or follow a schedule. This can interfere with work, school, and personal relationships.
Psychosis
This is the most well-known schizophrenia symptom. People with the disorder often lose touch with reality and begin developing false theories or ideas about the world around them. These theories are often coupled with intense feelings of paranoia.
For example, the person may begin to suspect the government is watching them. They may become suspicious of those they love or start to feel unsafe in their own home. Hallucinations, which are another common symptom, often worsen this paranoia.
Hallucinations can come in the form of visions, sounds, smells, or other sensory experiences. These frightening experiences often play into the paranoid delusions the person is developing, confirming they have a reason to feel scared.
As time goes on, the person may start to suspect friends and loved ones are out to harm them. The combination of paranoia and hallucinations causes the person to isolate themselves. It’s during this time that many patients begin abusing substances as a way of self-medicating. Unfortunately, drug use will only worsen the condition.
Understanding Schizophrenia in Memphis, Tennessee
Living with schizophrenia in Memphis, Tennessee, presents unique challenges that require a deep understanding of the local community and available resources. The Shelby County Health Department and the Memphis Crisis Center are vital entities that provide support and information for individuals and families affected by mental health disorders, including schizophrenia.
Memphis residents often face specific stressors that can exacerbate mental health conditions. The city's high poverty rates and instances of community violence are significant concerns that can contribute to the onset of schizophrenia, especially in those with a genetic predisposition. Additionally, the local climate of economic instability can lead to increased stress and anxiety, further impacting mental health.
At Grace Land Recovery, we recognize these local pain points and are committed to providing tailored care that addresses the unique needs of our Memphis community. Our team understands the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment where patients can focus on their recovery without the added pressures of their external environment.
We are located in the heart of Memphis, making it convenient for local residents to access our comprehensive treatment programs. Our holistic approach includes not only medical and psychological care but also community-based support to help patients reintegrate into their daily lives. We work closely with local organizations to ensure our patients have access to the resources they need to thrive.
Receive Help for Schizophrenia and Drug Abuse at Grace Land Recovery is Here
Not only can schizophrenia destroy individual lives, but it can also cause the patient’s family a great deal of distress. If you are suffering from schizophrenia and addiction, know that it’s never too late to turn things around. If you have a loved one who is suffering from this co-occurring disorder, don’t wait to act. Grace Land Recovery is here to offer the hope you and your family deserve.
Our dual-diagnosis treatment center is located in Memphis, Tennessee. We aim to treat schizophrenia and addiction by caring for the patient’s mind, body, and soul. We believe this holistic approach provides each of our patients with the greatest chance of success.
Some of the treatment methods that we offer include:
- Professional diagnosis and psychiatric care
- Individual and group therapy
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Dialectical behavioral therapy
- Experiential therapy
- Rational emotive therapy
- Clinical groups on nutrition, emotional regulation, and other important topics
- Medication management
Today can be the day your life changes forever. Receive the help you deserve from an experienced and compassionate treatment team. If you’re ready to enter treatment for schizophrenia and addiction, pleasecontact us now. Our representatives are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day.
Sources:
