Schizophrenia

If you or someone you love suffers from delusions, hallucinations, or disorganized speech, it could be because of schizophrenia. At Northern Virginia Psychiatric Group in Fairfax, Virginia, the psychiatry team diagnoses and treats this condition to reduce unpleasant or disabling symptoms. Call the office to learn more or use the online booking feature today.

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is an often debilitating mental health condition that can dramatically reduce your quality of life. It’s characterized by delusions, hallucinations, disordered thinking, and other symptoms that impair day-to-day functioning. Treatment for schizophrenia is life-long. Early intervention can reduce the risk of serious complications. 

What are the symptoms of schizophrenia?

The common symptoms of schizophrenia include:

• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Disorganized speech or thinking
• Extreme disorganization of motor behavior
• Bizarre behavior patterns
• Insufficient personal hygiene
• Lack of emotions or eye contact
• Loss of interest in everyday activities
• Social withdrawal 
• Depression

Schizophrenia can cause a lack of ability to function well in society. Symptoms of schizophrenia vary in severity and may get worse over time. The symptoms commonly begin in the early to mid 20s.

Schizophrenia may have a link to thoughts of suicide, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, substance abuse disorder, financial problems, and even homelessness.

What are the risk factors for schizophrenia?

While anyone can develop schizophrenia, common causes and risk factors include:

• Genetics
• Family history of mental health disorders
• Brain chemical imbalances
• Malnutrition or chemical exposure during pregnancy
• Taking certain drugs

While there’s no surefire way to prevent schizophrenia, undergoing treatment can prevent worsening symptoms or relapses. 

How does my provider diagnose schizophrenia?

To diagnose schizophrenia, your Northern Virginia Psychiatric Group provider reviews your symptoms, lifestyle habits, medications, and medical history. They complete a physical exam and may order blood tests, urine testing, or imaging procedures. Your provider also completes a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation by asking a series of questions.

How is schizophrenia treated?

The most common treatments for schizophrenia include:

Oral medications

Taking medications can help you better control symptoms of schizophrenia and prevent the condition from worsening.

Injectables

Using long-acting medication injections is a method for reducing schizophrenia symptoms if you’re unwilling or unable to take pills.

Psychotherapy

Some of the psychotherapy options available at Northern Virginia Psychiatric Group for schizophrenia include individual therapy, family therapy, social skills training, and vocational rehabilitation and supported employment to help you find or keep a job.

To learn more about the treatments for schizophrenia, call the Northern Virginia Psychiatric Group office or use the online booking feature today.