Patient Education Handout on Schizophrenia - Essay Example

 Patient Education Handout on Schizophrenia Schizophrenia is a psychiatric disorder characterized by alterations in an “individual’s perceptions, thoughts, affect and behavior” (Schizophrenia: Core Interventions in the Treatment and Management of Schizophrenia in Adults in Primary and Secondary Care, P.16). However, the pattern of its manifestations may differ among individuals, depending on their peculiar circumstances. McGlashan & Fenton (1991), as quoted in Chapter 13 (p.540) of the book titled, “Psychological Disorders,” suggest the prevalence of five types of schizophrenia such as: (a) Disorganized, (b) Catatonic, (c) Paranoid, (d) Undifferentiated and (e) Residual.

Patients who suffer from disorganized schizophrenia may exhibit symptoms such as illogical thinking, speech that lacks coherence and emotional hypersensitivity. Additionally, they tend to neglect the aspect of personal hygiene and display uncharacteristic mannerisms. Catatonic schizophrenia is characterized by highly erratic behavior ranging from stupor to hyperactivity. Those with paranoid schizophrenia often have delusions or hallucinations and may become suspicious and hostile without any reasonable.

The undifferentiated category includes those who manifest a combination of all these symptoms. Residual category refers to patients who have a previous history of the disease but currently do not manifest any symptoms. The effects of the disease can have serious repercussions on the lives of the patients, ranging from the tendency to over indulge in alcohol or drug abuse. Schizophrenics also tend to remain secluded, often in a depressed mood. As a result, they become unable to cope up with the daily routine and may neglect work or other social commitments.

In extreme cases, they resort to suicide when the depression overrides their capability to bear with the problem. However, no matter how serious the problem may seem, there is definitely hope as the modern medical science offers ample treatment avenues and medication to combat the disease. Medicines such as Risperidone, Aripiprazole, Quetiapine, Olanzapine etc have been proven to be effective in the treatment of the disease. Thus, with the support of family and friends, along with timely treatment and regular medication, schizophrenia can be treated.

Reference List Schizophrenia: Core Interventions in the Treatment and Management of Schizophrenia in Adults in Primary and Secondary Care (Updated Edition). (2010). The British Psychological Society & The Royal College of Psychiatrists. Retrieved August 15, 2011 from Psychological Disorders: A General Outlook, Chapter 13. Retrieved August 15, 2011 from < http://www.prenhall.com/divisions/hss/app/kassin_essentials/pdfs/13.pdf>