Schizophrenia can cause a variety of symptoms, which often begin between the ages of 16 and 30. However, the condition can also develop in younger and older people. Some symptoms of the disorder include:
What Are the Symptoms of Schizophrenia?
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- Hallucinations: Schizophrenia can cause people to see, hear, taste, or feel things that aren’t real. Hearing voices is a common type of hallucination.
- Delusions: People with schizophrenia may believe things that seem impossible or completely irrational to those who don’t have the condition. Some individuals with the condition think they are being followed or are in danger. Others think they are getting messages from media, such as the TV or radio.
- Communication problems: Schizophrenia can make it hard for a person to organize their thoughts. This can lead to communication symptoms, such as stopping in the middle of a sentence, jumping from one topic to another, or saying words that seem to be gibberish to listeners.
- Unusual movements: Individuals with schizophrenia may engage in repetitive movements such as hand flapping. They may be restless and seem unable to keep still, or they may adopt a postural sway.
- Inability to perform daily living activities: Schizophrenia can cause a person to discontinue self-care and grooming. People may not bathe or comb their hair. They may be unable to follow a schedule or complete items on a to-do list.
- Difficulties with social interaction: Schizophrenia may cause a person to speak in a monotone voice or to only use a limited range of facial expressions, which can make it difficult to interact with others positively. In social situations, they may appear awkward, or they may withdraw and refuse to engage in social interactions entirely.
- Depression symptoms: People with schizophrenia may develop depression or exhibit similar symptoms. These include loss of interest in daily activities, feelings of hopelessness or sadness, and a severe lack of energy.
When to Seek Help
There is no cure for schizophrenia, but medications and therapies can make symptoms manageable, so those with the condition can enjoy a higher quality of life. Symptoms of mental health disorders can mimic one another, making it important that you don’t try to diagnose yourself. If you or someone you love is experiencing any of the symptoms of schizophrenia, schedule an appointment to meet with a mental health professional.
