Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a concerning mental health disorder that alters a person’s sense of reality profoundly affecting the life of the person with schizophrenia and their loved ones. But with advances in treatment options, Akwetey Akrong, PMHNP-BC, and the team at Reverence Behavioral Health Services in Oak Brook, Illinois, can provide the medications and therapy that help manage schizophrenia symptoms and improve quality of life. For expert psychiatric care from a team who puts patients first, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a mental health condition characterized by hallucinations and delusions. People with schizophrenia can’t differentiate between what’s real and what’s not. These symptoms significantly affect thinking and behavior and the ability to manage day-to-day life.

What are the symptoms of schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia symptoms cause problems with thinking, behaviors, and emotions. Symptoms usually include:

Delusions

Delusions are false beliefs that conflict with reality. For example, the belief that someone is harming you even though there’s no evidence.

Hallucinations

People with schizophrenia hear, see, or smell things that feel very real to them but don’t exist.

Disorganized thinking

Disorganized thinking refers to impairments in communication. People with schizophrenia may put together words that have no meaning or are completely unrelated to the topic or question.

Abnormal motor behavior

Abnormal motor behavior refers to unusual movements or postures. Their motor movements are limited, excessive, or unfocused, making it hard to complete tasks.

Negative symptoms

Negative symptoms of schizophrenia include lack of emotion, poor hygiene, or loss of interest in daily activities.

Symptoms vary in type and severity and may worsen over time. Some are always present, while others may come and go.

What happens during a schizophrenia evaluation?

The Reverence Behavioral Health Services team takes a patient-centered approach to care and conducts a thorough schizophrenia evaluation to identify your strengths and goals and create a plan that changes your life.

During a schizophrenia evaluation, the team reviews symptoms, medical and mental health history, and family history. The team may include family or friends in the evaluation to get the best overall picture.

What are the treatments for schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental illness that requires ongoing care. The team customizes treatment using a combination of pharmaceutical and nonpharmaceutical treatments, such as:

Medication management

Antipsychotic medications are the primary treatment for schizophrenia. These medications help control symptoms. With medication management, the team helps find the right medication or combination of medications that best fit your requirements.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy for schizophrenia may include individual and family therapy. Individual therapy focuses on coping mechanisms to manage stress and symptom triggers. Family therapy provides education and support for loved ones.

Social skills training

Social skills training for schizophrenia works on improving communication and social interactions.

Schizophrenia is a life-long condition but manageable when you have the right team. Call Reverence Behavioral Health Services or schedule an appointment online today.