Schizophrenia

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a long-term, serious mental health condition that impacts a person’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. The condition can make it difficult to distinguish between what’s real and what’s not, impair daily functioning, and disrupt relationships. 

While schizophrenia is a lifelong condition, early diagnosis and consistent treatment can help you lead a meaningful, fulfilling life.

What are the symptoms of schizophrenia?

Symptoms of schizophrenia typically fall into three categories:

Positive symptoms

Positive symptoms include hallucinations (such as hearing voices), delusions (false beliefs), and disorganized thinking or speech.

Negative symptoms

Negative symptoms refer to disruptions in normal behavior, such as reduced emotional expression, lack of motivation, or withdrawal from social activities.

Cognitive symptoms

Cognitive symptoms may include difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and trouble organizing thoughts or making decisions.

The severity and combination of symptoms can vary from person to person and may change over time.

What causes schizophrenia?

The exact cause of schizophrenia isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to result from a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. 

A family history of schizophrenia, imbalances in brain chemicals like dopamine, and complications during birth or early development may increase the risk. Stressful life events or substance use can also trigger or worsen symptoms in those who are predisposed.

How is schizophrenia treated?

At Hope & Resilience Psychiatry Services, PLLC, treatment for schizophrenia involves addressing you as a whole (mind, body, and spirit) rather than focusing solely on your symptoms. 

The approach often includes:

• Medication management: to help reduce or control hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking
• Psychotherapy: to help you better understand your thoughts and manage daily challenges
• Lifestyle support: (healthy routines, proper nutrition, physical activity, and regular sleep) to improve overall stability
• Family and social support: to improve outcomes and reduce isolation
• Telehealth options: to provide convenient, consistent access to mental health support

At Hope & Resilience Psychiatry Services, PLLC, Henry’s holistic, evidence-based approach is tailored to your unique needs, helping you live with stability, dignity, and hope.

If you or a loved one shows signs of schizophrenia, book an appointment by phone or online today. In-person and telehealth appointments are available.