Understanding Schizophrenia: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Options
Schizophrenia is a complex and often misunderstood mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It can interfere with daily functioning, relationships, and overall quality of life—but with the right support and treatment, individuals can live fulfilling lives.
What Is Schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a serious, long-term mental illness that affects approximately 0.25% to 0.64% of U.S. adults. It typically begins in the late teens to early 30s, with men often showing symptoms earlier than women. While rare in children and older adults, early detection is key to effective management.
Common Symptoms of Schizophrenia
Symptoms vary from person to person, but they generally fall into four categories:
- Positive Symptoms
- Hallucinations: Hearing voices or seeing things others don’t.
- Delusions: Strongly held false beliefs, even when presented with evidence to the contrary.
- Negative Symptoms
- Emotional flatness
- Lack of motivation
- Difficulty maintaining relationships
- Cognitive Symptoms
- Disorganized thinking
- Trouble concentrating or remembering
- Lack of insight (anosognosia)
- Behavioral Symptoms
- Disorganized or catatonic behavior
- Withdrawal from social activities
What Causes Schizophrenia?
There’s no single cause, but research points to a combination of genetic, environmental, and biological factors:
- Genetics: A family history increases risk significantly.
- Prenatal Factors: Malnutrition or viral exposure during pregnancy.
- Brain Chemistry: Imbalances in dopamine and glutamate.
- Substance Use: Early and frequent marijuana use may increase risk.
How Is Schizophrenia Diagnosed?
Diagnosis requires a comprehensive medical evaluation for at least six months. A person must show two or more key symptoms—such as delusions, hallucinations, or disorganized speech—alongside reduced functioning.
Cultural background can influence how symptoms are expressed and interpreted, making culturally competent care essential.
Treatment Options for Schizophrenia
While there’s no cure, schizophrenia can be effectively managed with a combination of:
- Antipsychotic medications
- Psychotherapy (e.g., CBT, supportive therapy)
- Self-management strategies and education
Early intervention—especially during the first psychotic episode—can significantly improve outcomes.
How Virtual Treatment Works
Schizophrenia is a challenging condition, but hope and recovery are possible. With the right treatment, support, and understanding, individuals can lead meaningful lives. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms, don’t wait—reach out to a mental health professional today.
At National Mental Health Physician Assistant Corporation (NMHPAC), led by Yeon Kim, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, we specialize in compassionate, evidence-based care for adults navigating mental health challenges, including schizophrenia and related conditions.
Our services include:
- Virtual psychiatric evaluations
- Medication management
- Ongoing support
📞 Need Help Now?
If you or someone you know is in crisis:
- Call or text 988 – The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (available 24/7)
- Visit 988lifeline.org or go to your nearest emergency room
- You can also speak with your doctor or mental health provider immediately. Schedule an appointment or call (628)-215-1120 today.
References
National Alliance on Mental Illness. Schizophrenia: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Options. NAMI. Published 2025. Accessed September 24, 2025. https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Mental-Health-Conditions/Schizophrenia