Schizophrenia

If you or a loved one struggles with delusions, hallucinations, or disorganized speech, see the specialists at Foveo Healthcare A Professional Medical Corporation in Burbank, California. The outstanding mental health team diagnoses and treats schizophrenia to help you thrive in everyday situations and reduce the risk of further problems. Schedule an appointment by phone or online today.

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a severe mental health disorder in which you interpret reality in an abnormal way. It can cause problematic thoughts and behavior patterns when not addressed. At the first sign of schizophrenia or another mental health concern, see Foveo Healthcare specialists for an evaluation. 

What are the symptoms of schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia may present as:

• Delusions
• Hallucinations
• Disordered thinking
• Abnormal behaviors
• Impaired ability for self-care
• Disorganized speech
• Hearing voices
• Talking gibberish
• Agitation
• Lack of eye contact
• Social withdrawal
• Lack of emotion
• Loss of interest in favorite activities
• Depression
• Trouble sleeping

The symptoms associated with schizophrenia may be mild or severe and worsen over time when left untreated.

What are the risk factors for schizophrenia?

The cause of schizophrenia isn’t entirely understood, but its risk factors may include:

• Family history of schizophrenia
• Brain chemistry issues
• Pregnancy complications
• Malnutrition
• Toxin exposure
• Drug use

Schizophrenia symptoms may begin in men in their early to mid 20s, while they often appear in women in their late 20s. 

Complications associated with schizophrenia include substance misuse, suicide, being victimized, and the inability for proper self-care or to hold down a long-term job.

While you can’t necessarily prevent schizophrenia if you’re prone to the condition, sticking with an effective treatment plan minimizes symptoms and the risk of worsening problems. 

How is schizophrenia diagnosed?

Your provider diagnoses schizophrenia after discussing your symptoms, mood, medications, lifestyle, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. 

They complete a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, do pharmacogenomics testing to determine which medications best match your genetics, and may suggest additional diagnostic testing before tailoring your treatment plan. 

How is schizophrenia treated?

Schizophrenia usually requires lifelong treatment that may include medication management and psychotherapy. Sometimes hospitalization is necessary to prevent severe complications. 

Psychosocial interventions may include individualized therapy, family therapy, social skills training, vocational rehabilitation, and employment support that helps you find a steady job. You might also need daily living help or the support of community programs.

Foveo Healthcare offers in-person and virtual telepsychiatry options that allow you to meet with a therapist from the comfort of your home.

Schedule an evaluation at Foveo Healthcare by phone or online today to get screened or treated for schizophrenia.