Schizophreniais a mental illness that impacts how someone thinks, feels, and behaves.
Cognitive Symptoms
Cognitive symptoms impact memory, attention, and concentration.
Some may be able to function relatively independently, maintain relationships, and have a job.
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Others may have symptoms that moderately or severely affect their ability to function independently.
More research is needed on this association.
Teens vs. ## Managing Schizophrenia Symptoms
A large part of treating schizophrenia is symptom management.
Medication usually consists ofantipsychotic drugs.
They are prescribed based on an individual’s medical history and symptoms.
Coordinated care programs might be necessary for those with more severe symptoms.
A Word From Verywell
Seek professional help as soon as possible.
Early diagnosis and treatment is a positive predictive factor for long-term outcomes.
Having a loved one develop symptoms of schizophrenia can be stressful and even frightening.
Finding support and education about the illness is also critical.
Summary
Schizophrenia symptoms generally fall into categories of positive, negative, or cognitive symptoms.
Positive symptoms include delusions and hallucinations.
Negative symptoms include reduced motivation, interest in activities, and social interactions.
Cognitive symptoms include difficulty processing and using information.
Negative symptoms usually indicate a more serious course of illness and are common in schizophrenia.
Despite the seriousness of schizophrenia and its symptoms, treatments are available, and symptom management is possible.
National Institute of Mental Health.Schizophrenia.
a multiplex extended pedigree study.Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet.
2022;35(4):e100823.
