Schizophrenia Treatment California

Schizophrenia is a debilitating mental illness characterized by trouble differentiating reality from fantasy as well as difficulty making decisions and managing emotions. The condition has no known cause, and there are no specific tests for diagnosing schizophrenia in affected individuals. The medical professionals have to rely on the individual’s report and the observation of those around them.

If you think you or anyone you know may have schizophrenia, do not hesitate to contact A Mission for Michael, the leading schizophrenia treatment center n Los Angeles. We boast the necessary expertise to fully manage the condition and reduce the occurrence and severity of schizophrenia patients’ symptoms.

What causes schizophrenia?

Research points to a combination of genetic, physical, environmental, and psychological factors that predispose people to the condition. However, the exact cause of the condition remains unknown. People who are at risk of schizophrenia are more likely to have the condition if they have a stressful emotional life. However, not all of them develop the symptoms, and it remains unclear why. Overall, determining the cause of the condition in a specific individual does not alter the treatment course.

How is schizophrenia diagnosed?

As mentioned earlier, there is no specific diagnostic test for schizophrenia. The diagnosis is made by mental health experts such as psychiatrists or psychologists, mainly based on interviews and history taking. Often, the points to note include:

  • Individual’s and family’s general medical history
  • Individual’s and family’s medical history
  • History of substance abuse

What are the symptoms of schizophrenia?

The symptoms of schizophrenia are broadly divided into positive and negative symptoms.

Positive symptoms

  • Hallucinations: experiences characterized by misinformation from any of the senses. The most common form is hearing voices.
  • Delusions: force beliefs that are only held by the patient.
  • Disorganized speech: the person’s speech becomes incoherent and hard to follow. They may also find it difficult to stick to a topic or line of thought.
  • Extremely disorganized, confused, or withdrawn behavior

Negative symptoms

  • Negative symptoms are typified by social withdrawal and losing interest in previously exciting activities. They may include:

    • Losing interest in relationships and other activities.
    • Changes in sleep pattern and lack of concentration.
    • Feeling uncomfortable around people and being less likely to start conversations.

The presence of two or more of the above symptoms, often alongside a positive family and/or drug use history, is enough to diagnose schizophrenia.

How do you treat schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia treatment in Orange County requires the presence of mental health professionals. For now, there is no known cure for the condition. Thus, the treatment goal is to reduce the occurrence and severity of symptoms and ensure the condition does not affect the patient’s quality of life. Schizophrenia treatment programs often incorporate therapy and prescription drugs.

Do you need qualified professionals for the treatment of psychosis and schizophrenia in Orange County, CA? You need not look beyond A Mission for Michael, the leading mental health treatment center in Southern California. Contact us on (844) 532-8882 to learn more about our programs or verify your insurance.

ARE YOU OR A LOVED ONE STRUGGLING WITH MENTAL HEALTH?

AMFM is here to help you or your loved one take the next steps towards an improved mental well-being.