What is schizophrenia? It is a serious mental health condition affecting over 22 million people worldwide. It alters the way a person thinks, speaks, and behaves. They might experience hallucinations, believe in conspiracy theories, and speak in riddles, all of which adversely affect their family, social, and work life. If you or a loved one is struggling with schizophrenia, reach out to Northpoint Seattle’s personalized schizophrenia treatment program today to find out how we can help.
In fact, those with schizophrenia are two to three times more likely to die early than the general population. However, with guided therapy and medical care, it is possible to manage the symptoms and live a healthy, fulfilling life. To know more about schizophrenia and our specialized schizophrenia treatment program, call us at 888.483.6031.
What Is Schizophrenia?
The term “schizophrenia” literally means a “splitting of the mind”. Those diagnosed with schizophrenia disorder often appear to be out of touch with reality.
They may hear strange voices, speak in a muddled manner and struggle with disorganized thoughts that appear out of nowhere. Their erratic behavior may verge on intense anxiety and paranoia, causing distress to their loved ones who may not be sure as to how to help them.
The symptoms, if left untreated, can lead to social exclusion and alienation. They may withdraw from society, lose interest in daily life and struggle with normal functioning. They are also at risk of developing a substance use disorder.
The typical symptoms of schizophrenia include the following:
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Disorganized thinking/speech
- Abnormal motor behavior
- Social withdrawal and anhedonia
They may also experience suicidal thoughts. If someone you love is experiencing similar symptoms or suicidal thoughts, arrange for professional intervention as soon as possible.
Why Opt for a Schizophrenia Treatment Program?
Now that you know more about the symptoms of schizophrenia, it is important to carefully consider the possible treatment options. Since the symptoms and causes of schizophrenia vary significantly from patient to patient, someone living with the condition should ideally reach out to a treatment center that offers personalized and flexible treatment, such as Northpoint Recovery in Seattle.
A typical schizophrenia treatment program may include some or all of the following:
- Medications to block delusions and hallucinations
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to develop healthy coping mechanisms and achieve goals and desires
- Family therapy, which involves education and counseling of loved ones so that they can provide effective support and not hinder the patient’s recovery
- Peer support groups to connect with those with similar experiences, improve social skills, and reconnect with the community
- Life skills training, so that the person can resume their jobs or studies and live independently
Before commencing treatment, the staff at such a facility will usually perform psychiatric and physical evaluations, talk to their family members, and identify any co-occurring disorders. After the initial diagnosis, they will formulate a specialized recovery plan to address particular symptoms and improve the patient’s overall well-being, as part of the schizophrenia treatment program.
Find Help and Healing at Northpoint Recovery
At Northpoint Seattle, we firmly believe that no one is beyond help. No matter how serious the condition, our expert and empathetic staff will closely work with you to find effective healing strategies and practical solutions to your unique issues.
We offer a plethora of programs and services to match a patient’s specific needs, recovery goals, and budget. From partial hospitalization to intensive outpatient programs, our flexible and customizable recovery plans will help you to commit to lifelong sobriety and wellness.
Schizophrenia is a highly complex mental health condition that requires intensive treatment and specialist care, so don’t neglect your mental health. Contact us at 888.483.6031 and embark on your healing journey today.