Schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder that affects an individual’s ability to interpret reality. It is characterized as a combination of hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking and behavior.
Symptoms of schizophrenia involve problems with thinking, behavior and emotions and may include:
Symptoms will vary in type and severity among individuals. There are periods of improvement and decline; however, some symptoms may always be present.
Men may start experiencing symptoms in their early to mid-20s, while women may typically begin to show symptoms in their late 20s.
Schizophrenia symptoms in teenagers are similar to those of adults, however, they are much more difficult to recognize. That is because early symptoms in schizophrenia in teenagers are similar to those that are common in the developmental years, such as:
Teenagers are less likely to have delusions, but more likely to have visual hallucinations.
The causes of schizophrenia are unknown, but researchers believe that it is caused by a combination of genetics, brain chemistry, and the environment.
There are certain factors that increase the risk of developing or triggering schizophrenia, such as:
Individuals who are suffering from schizophrenia lack awareness, which is why it is up to their friends and family to see the signs and get them the help that they need.
Notice: The above information is an educational aid only. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.