Schizophrenia
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What Is Schizophrenia?
The exact cause of schizophrenia is unknown. A combination of causes, such as genetics, brain chemistry and structure, stress, and psychoactive drugs such as LSD may contribute to the development of the disorder. Evidence also suggests that changes in body chemistry during puberty may also play a role. Researchers have recently theorized that there’s a link between schizophrenia and brain development problems that occur in fetuses when the pregnant woman contracts certain viruses (influenza, toxoplasmosis and rubella). Genital or reproductive infections present in the mother during conception may also increase the baby’s future risk of developing schizophrenia.
Symptoms of Schizophrenia
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Disorganized thinking– a person may switch very quickly from one topic to another or give answers that are completely unrelated
- Feelings of sadness, emptiness, feelings of worthlessness, or other symptoms of depression
- Manic behavior such as feelings of euphoria, racing thoughts, increased risky behavior, and other symptoms of mania
Treatment For Schizophrenia
An individual can learn to manage the symptoms of schizophrenia successfully, however, the treatment must be individualized considering the person’s history, motivation, and response to suggestions. At Lifeskills, we treat schizophrenia using our Cognitive Remediation Therapy (CRT) Pathway.
The CRT Pathway is used to treat clients with thought disorders that are experiencing cognitive deficits including problems with attention, memory, processing speed, facial recognition, and other social deficits. The pathway uses BrainHQ which is a computer-based cognitive rehabilitation training program that helps people think more clearly and quickly. Using brain games and interpersonal skills groups, the pathway helps clients improve their attention, memory, problem-solving, organizational, and planning skills. Our CRT Pathway also uses other types of therapy, psychoeducation, and medications to help stop the cognitive decline and in some instances reverse it.
Interested in learning more about Lifeskills treatment for schizophrenia?
Call us at 866.321.9430 or fill out our contact form.
