A complicated mental illness, schizophrenia affects about 1% of South Africans. This long-term illness affects a person's thoughts, emotions, and behaviour, which frequently causes severe problems in day-to-day living.

 

Although the precise aetiology of schizophrenia is still unknown, scientists think several variables combine to produce it:

 

• Genetics: The likelihood of having schizophrenia rises if there is a family history of the disorder.

• Brain chemistry: Neurotransmitter imbalances, especially those involving dopamine and serotonin, may have a role in the onset of schizophrenia. Environmental elements, such as before or during infancy, exposure to chemicals, infections, or starvation, may raise the risk. Additionally, among vulnerable individuals, the start of schizophrenia may be triggered by stressful life situations and the use of mind-altering medications, particularly during adolescence.

 

Symptoms and signs

​

The symptoms of schizophrenia can vary significantly in type and intensity, and they usually appear in late adolescence or early adulthood. The primary signs and symptoms consist of:

 

Positive symptoms:

• These are extraneous encounters that enrich an individual's existence.

• Hallucinations (perceiving, sensing, or seeing unreal objects)

• Delusions, or mistaken beliefs

• Erratic behaviour and speech

 

Negative symptoms:

These include abilities that people suffering from schizophrenia “lose” such as,

• The inability to perform regular tasks

• Decreased manifestation of emotions

• Social disengagement

• Absence of drive/ motivation

• Poor self-care

 

Mental signs:

These have an impact on thought processes such as,

• Issues focussing and paying attention

• Memory problems

• Weakened capacity for making decisions

 

 

Treatment

​

Schizophrenia has no known cure, although there are therapies that can help control symptoms and enhance quality of life.

• Medication. The mainstay of care for schizophrenia is the use of antipsychotic medication. They assist in reducing delusions, hallucinations, and disordered thought patterns.

• Psychosocial interventions: Individual counselling to assist with symptom management and stress management, developing social skills to enhance communication and interpersonal relationships as well as family guidance and assistance.

• Specialty care that is coordinated: medication, psychosocial therapies, family participation, and educational programs are all integrated into this holistic approach.