Schizophrenia

Often misunderstood, schizophrenia is a mental health condition that deserves an accurate diagnosis and treatment. At DelSandz TeleWellness LLC, an online psychiatry practice based in St. Petersburg, Florida, led by mental health expert Sandi Stauffer, DNP, PMHNP, treatments help regulate symptoms and promote a fulfilling, independent life. The cash-only practice doesn’t require insurance and makes booking a telehealth appointment a simple process as they work with your schedule. Call or click online to schedule a telehealth session now.

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It's characterized by episodes where the individual seems to lose touch with reality, which can be distressing for both the person experiencing it and their loved ones. 

Schizophrenia typically emerges in late adolescence or early adulthood, and its impact can be profound, affecting one's ability to function in daily life.

What are the symptoms of schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia symptoms usually fall into three categories, including:

Positive symptoms

These involve psychotic behaviors not seen in healthy individuals. They include hallucinations (hearing or seeing things that aren't there), delusions (false beliefs, often paranoid or grandiose), and disorganized thinking (trouble organizing thoughts or connecting them logically).

Negative symptoms

These represent a decrease or loss of the ability to initiate plans, speak, express emotion, or find pleasure in everyday life.

Cognitive symptoms

These affect memory and thinking processes. Individuals might struggle with working memory, making it difficult to manage tasks, pay attention, or make decisions.

What causes schizophrenia?

The exact cause of schizophrenia isn't fully understood, but it's believed to be a complex mix of the following:

Genetics

Schizophrenia tends to run in families, indicating a genetic predisposition. However, no single gene is responsible; rather, it's likely a combination of genetic factors.

Brain chemistry and structure

Imbalances in neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine and glutamate, are thought to play a role. Structural abnormalities in the brain have also been observed in people with schizophrenia.

Environment

Factors such as prenatal exposure to viruses or malnutrition, stressful life circumstances, and drug use (especially during adolescence) may increase the risk of developing schizophrenia.

Is schizophrenia treatable?

Yes, schizophrenia is treatable, although there’s currently no cure. DelSandz TeleWellness LLC typically treats schizophrenia with a combination of the following:

Medications

Antipsychotic drugs can help manage symptoms, particularly positive symptoms like hallucinations and delusions.

Psychotherapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches can help individuals develop coping strategies, improve functioning, and reduce the severity of symptoms.

Support services

Social support, vocational training, and rehabilitation programs are vital in helping individuals lead fulfilling lives.

Early intervention and a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan are key to managing schizophrenia effectively, so reach out to DelSandz TeleWellness LLC today if you or a loved one has signs of schizophrenia. Call for a telehealth appointment or book online now.