Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a severe psychological condition that impacts how you perceive reality. At Potomac Shores Mental Health and Wellness in Woodbridge and Falls Church, Virginia, the experienced team provides personalized, compassionate care for schizophrenia that focuses on helping you live as independently as possible. Call the office nearest you today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a complex mental health disorder that affects how your brain processes information, making it challenging to interpret reality. Most men experience symptoms in their 20s or earlier, while some women don’t get diagnosed until their 30s. 

Schizophrenia requires ongoing care and support to help you manage its impact on daily life. Without treatment, schizophrenia can interfere with relationships, work, and daily responsibilities. However, with proper care at Potomac Shores Mental Health and Wellness, you can lead a meaningful, fulfilling life.

What are the signs of schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia symptoms typically fall into five categories:

Hallucinations

Hallucinations involve sensing things that aren’t real. You might hear voices, see things, or feel sensations others don’t. The most common are auditory hallucinations or hearing voices.

Delusions

Delusions are strong, fixed beliefs that go against reality. These might include feeling convinced that someone is watching you, believing you have special abilities, or thinking others can read your thoughts.

Disorganized thinking and speech

Schizophrenia can make it challenging to organize your thoughts, leading to chaotic or disconnected speech, which makes it hard for others to follow what you’re saying or for you to keep thoughts in order.

Negative symptoms

Negative symptoms are things that seem to be missing compared to how they used to be. You might feel emotionally flat, withdraw from social activities, struggle to feel joy, or lose motivation for everyday tasks.

Cognitive symptoms

Cognitive symptoms affect how you think and focus. It may be difficult to concentrate, remember details, or make decisions. These changes can impact your daily routines and quality of life.

These symptoms can vary in intensity; recognizing them can be the first step toward finding support and managing schizophrenia.

What are the treatments for schizophrenia?

While schizophrenia has no cure, you can manage the condition through medications and therapeutic techniques like:

Antipsychotic medications

These medications help balance chemicals in your brain, reducing or controlling symptoms like hallucinations and delusions. 

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

This therapy helps you understand and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. 

Community support services

Accessing community resources, such as support groups or rehabilitation programs, can connect you with others facing similar challenges.

Having schizophrenia doesn’t define you or limit your potential. You can lead a fulfilling life with the proper support and treatment. Call Potomac Shores Mental Health and Wellness today or schedule an appointment online to receive the care you need.