Schizophrenia is a chronic, disabling formal thought disorder which affects 1.1 percent of Americans. Men, women and children may be affected by Schizophrenia, and it has various presentations in the live’s of those affected. Various  new treatments are currently available to people who suffer from this illness. The modalities include medication, therapy and other methods.  This disease is also associated with a 15% rate of suicide completion.  This disease has a genetic predisposition and has a tendency to run in families. This illness affects not only the person suffering, but also those loved ones around him/her.

 There area few key signs to look for in persons who may or may not have the disease:

1. Delusions (bizzarre fixed-false beliefs that are not true. i.e. “I am pregnant by aliens!”))

2. Hallucinations  Consistently (” hearing ” or “seeing”  things that are not present)

3. Disorganized, derailed,or  incoherent behavior (i.e. “watering” plants with antifreeze, or speaking in broken sentences)

4. Disorganized or catatonic behavior (they remain immobile for extended periods of time or they can experience flailing movements)

5. Negative symptoms (flat affect, and or poverty of speech)

For more information, please refer to Dr. Owens’ E-Lecture.

AskDrO.com wants our community and its people to be strong advocates for a  healthy mind and a healthy body. Schizophrenia, as well as depression, anxiety and anger issues develop without the person even knowing it. Help promote a healthier lifestyle; take the Dr. Owens Mental Health Prescreen Assessment and check your mental status today!