Schizophrenia literally means split from reality. Schizophrenic patients are typically unable to filter sensory stimuli and may have enhanced perceptions of sounds, colors, and other features of their environment. In addition, they may perceive sensory input that does not exist, such as voices or noises.

Causes

The exact causes for schizophrenia are not yet known. Both genetic and non-genetic factors are thought to be involved. Researchers suspect a biological basis for schizophrenia, possibly an imbalance in brain chemicals that regulate thought and emotion. Having one biological parent with schizophrenia increases your risk of having the disease.

Symptoms

• Social withdrawal
• Loose thought associations
• Self-absorbed in thoughts
• Delusions of persecution
• Grandiose delusions
• Auditory hallucinations
• Flat personality
• Feeling of detachment
• Mood changes
• Confusion
• Inability to make decisions
• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Nervousness
• Repetitive actions
• Long periods of immobility
• Strange statements or behavior

Treatment

The treatment of schizophrenia depends in part on the patient's stage or phase. Psychotic symptoms and behaviors are considered psychiatric emergencies, and persons showing signs of psychosis are frequently taken to a hospital emergency room.
Anti-psychotic medications can reduce the relapse rate by 50 percent.
Antidepressant medications often are helpful in dealing with a coexisting Depression
Benzodiazepines, such as Lorazepam, may help agitated or catatonic symptoms.