Our mental health facilities in Orange County are unique, and inside of them we provide personalized medication and/or treatment plans for each client. SoCal Empowered can give you the tools, skills, and medication you need to manage this challenging brain disorder. We are proud of our knowledgeable care team, who always deliver a warm welcome and open arms to our residents.
WHAT IS THE SCHIZOPHRENIA SPECTRUM?
Given the nature of the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors associated with the schizophrenia spectrum, it can be extremely hard to hold a job or generally live a functional life.
The cause or causes of schizophrenia are still not known. Genetic and environmental factors may play a role, but much more research is necessary in order to clearly identify any causes.
EARLY SIGNS OF THE SCHIZOPHRENIA SPECTRUM
During the early stages of schizophrenia, a person may appear to lack motivation, neglect their appearance, and show no emotion. They have abandoned any interests or activities they once enjoyed, and their school or work performance declines.
Some of the most common early warning signs include:
- Depression, social withdrawal
- Acting hostile or suspicious
- Extreme reaction to criticism
- Deterioration of personal hygiene
- A regularly occurring expressionless gaze
- Inability to express emotion
- Strange or irrational comments
- An odd use of words or phrases
- Oversleeping, or insomnia
- Forgetful
- An inability to concentrate
Schizophrenia is often mistaken for dissociative identity disorder (multiple personality disorder/split personality). Despite their similarities in certain regards, they are not the same disorder. Regardless of what it turns out to be, anyone displaying warning signs should be evaluated for schizophrenia treatment in Orange County or at a nearby medical facility as soon as possible.
SCHIZOPHRENIA SPECTRUM SYMPTOMS
POSITIVE SYMPTOMS
Positive symptoms, or psychotic symptoms, are behaviors that are usually not seen in people. For some, these symptoms can come and go, but for others they are persistent. Schizophrenia positive symptoms can range from unnoticeable to severe, and can include:
- Hallucinations: The individual sees, hears, smells, tastes, or feels things that aren’t really there. Voice hallucinations are common in schizophrenic patients.
- Delusions: The individual firmly believes things that are not true. For example, paranoia, having irrational fears like thinking someone is trying to hurt them.
- Thought disorders: The individual has an unusual way of thinking. Patients will have trouble gathering and organizing their thoughts. They can stop talking in the middle of a sentence or use nonsensical words.
- Movement disorders: The individual displays abnormal body movements. For instance, a person may repeat a specific motion repeatedly or, in rate cases, become catatonic.
NEGATIVE SYMPTOMS
Negative symptoms make it difficult for a person to show emotions and perform everyday functions. A person in this position may seem depressed, socially withdrawn, and need help with daily tasks. Schizophrenia spectrum negative symptoms may include:
- Talking in a dull voice
- Showing no facial expressions
- Having trouble being happy
- Difficulty planning and sticking to an activity
It is important to note that these symptoms can be difficult to recognize as schizophrenia. They can be easily mistaken for depression or other mental health conditions.
CONGNITIVE SYMPTOMS
Cognitive symptoms affect a person’s thought processes. These symptoms are not as easy to recognize, and can only be detected with specific tests. Cognition behavior symptoms can include:
- Difficulty processing information
- Having a hard time making decisions
- An inability to focus
SCHIZOPHRENIA TREATMENT IN ORANGE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
INDIVIDUALIZED CARE
The schizophrenia spectrum is a chronic set of conditions, meaning it requires lifelong treatment. As is the case with most disorders, the earlier someone receives schizophrenia treatment, the better. According to the Mayo Clinic, getting treatment early on may help control symptoms before serious complications develop.
SoCal Empowered uses evidence-based treatment options to treat mental health disorders such as schizophrenia. Research shows that combining individual psychotherapy and medication is typically the most effective route.
It is not unusual for a person with schizophrenia to have a co-occurring disorder. These can include depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder.
THE POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF UNTREATED SCHIZOPHRENIA
- Suicidal thoughts
- Suicide attempts
- Anxiety disorder and OCD
- Depression
- Alcohol or substance abuse disorder
- Homelessness and financial problems
- Health and medical problems
Learn more about SCHIZOPHRENIA SPECTRUM TREATMENT TODAY
SCHIZOPHRENIA IN ORANGE COUNTY, CA
The bottom line with regards to the schizophrenia spectrum is that people should pay attention to warning signs. If you feel that something is wrong with a loved one, trust your instincts.
If any of this sounds familiar, seek help as soon as possible. At SoCal Empowered, you can start personalizing your path to success and heal your mental health today. It all starts with a conversation, do contact us at any time.