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Psychological disorders must be treated in a timely manner like medical problems, or they can become severe. Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness that must be treated to avoid complications and sometimes suicide. Early diagnosis and adequate therapies are key to successful treatment for any mental disorder. Please continue reading to find out how expert psychologists treat Schizophrenia in Dubai.
Table of Contents
What is Schizophrenia?
People who have Schizophrenia, a severe mental disorder, interpret reality abnormally. The affected person experiences extremely disordered thinking, delusions, and hallucinations. Moreover, the person may suffer from behaviors that impair daily functioning. It is a complex mental illness that needs lifelong treatment and care. However, early diagnosis and treatment can avoid complications caused by Schizophrenia.
Causes of Schizophrenia
The actual cause of Schizophrenia is unknown yet. So far, the researchers have elaborated that the following contribute to the development of this illness:
- Environmental Factors
- Brain Chemistry
- Combination of Genetics
Some studies elaborate on how Schizophrenia patients have different brain structures and central nervous systems. Besides, the issues with the following brain chemicals (including neurotransmitters) often contribute to Schizophrenia:
- Dopamine
- Glutamate
Symptoms of Schizophrenia
Different emotional, cognitive, and behavioral problems occur due to Schizophrenia.
In Adults
Some common symptoms include the following:
- Delusions
- Hallucinations
- Negative thinking
- Disorganized speech or thinking
- Abnormal motor behavior or extreme disorganization
In Teenagers
In addition to the symptoms mentioned above, the following signs may appear in teenagers:
- Trouble sleeping
- Lack of motivation
- Irritability or depressed mood
- A drop in performance at school
- Withdrawal from friends and family
Risk Factors for Schizophrenia
The following factors can increase the risk of Schizophrenia:
- Older age of the father
- The family history of Schizophrenia
- Increased immune system activation
- Some pregnancy and birth complications
- Intake of mind-altering drugs during young adulthood and teenage
Complications caused by Schizophrenia
When not treated, the illness can complicate, affecting most of the life aspects. The following complications are common if patients do not undergo Schizophrenia Treatment in Dubai:
- Self-injury
- Depression
- Social isolation
- Being victimized
- Financial and legal problems
- Medical and health problems
- Inability to attend school or work
- Anger and aggressive behavior (not typical)
- Abuse of drugs, including tobacco and alcohol
- Suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts, and suicide
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and anxiety disorders
Prevention from Schizophrenia
Although it is impossible to prevent Schizophrenia, timely diagnosis and proper treatment are the key to success in treating it. Moreover, the patient’s cooperation with the professional is also crucial to get the desired results.
Diagnosing Schizophrenia
Some people have symptoms of Schizophrenia, but they have some other illnesses. The doctor will use different techniques to diagnose the problem, such as:
- Physical exam
- Tests and screenings
- Psychiatric evaluation
- Diagnostic criteria for Schizophrenia
Treatment Techniques
As a complex mental disease, Schizophrenia requires lifelong treatment. Generally, psychotherapy and medications are used to manage its symptoms. However, hospitalization might be necessary in severe cases. Usually, a psychiatrist having expertise in treating Schizophrenia treats it. Additionally, the following people may also work alongside a psychiatrist:
- Psychologist
- Social worker
- Case manager
- Psychiatric nurse
The following methods are used for Schizophrenia Treatment in Dubai:
Medication
Medications play an essential role in Schizophrenia treatment. The primary role of medications is to control symptoms by affecting dopamine. In general, antipsychotic medications are prescribed by a psychiatrist. However, in some cases, anti-anxiety and antidepressant drugs can also be considered. The doctor decides the right amount of dose to handle the symptoms effectively. Moreover, the progress happens slowly, and the side effects of such medications could be severe.
Second-Generation Antipsychotics
Due to a low risk of side effects, second-generation medications are preferred nowadays. The list below shows some famous ones:
- Clozapine (Clozaril)
- Lurasidone (Latuda)
- Asenapine (Saphris)
- Cariprazine (Vraylar)
- Iloperidone (Fanapt)
- Aripiprazole (Abilify)
- Olanzapine (Zyprexa)
- Ziprasidone (Geodon)
- Paliperidone (Invega)
- Quetiapine (Seroquel)
- Brexpiprazole (Rexulti)
- Risperidone (Risperdal)
First-Generation Antipsychotics
The first-generation antipsychotics are different from the second-generation antipsychotics, but they involve more risk of side effects. Some of these are as follows:
- Haloperidol
- Fluphenazine
- Perphenazine
- Chlorpromazine
Once psychosis starts decreasing, one of the following psychosocial (psychological and social) interventions can be tried:
- Family therapy
- Individual therapy
- Social skills training
- Supported employment and vocational rehabilitation
Hospitalization
The doctor may recommend hospitalization to cope with severe symptoms of Schizophrenia. It will ensure good nutrition, required hygiene, complete safety, and proper sleep.
Electroconvulsive Therapy
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is a good option when drug therapy does not work in adults.
Seeking Extra Support
A Schizophrenia patient can do the following to get better soon:
- Focus on objectives
- Research about Schizophrenia
- Become a member of a support group
- Learn stress management and relaxation
Schizophrenia FAQs
What are the early signs of schizophrenia?
The most common signs of Schizophrenia are having trouble sleeping, feeling sad or depressed, withdrawal from social activities, bad hygiene, and inability to concentrate.
How do people get Schizophrenia?
The actual cause of Schizophrenia is still unknown. However, some brain chemistry, genetics, and neurotransmitter changes can cause this problem.
What kind of voices do people with Schizophrenia hear?
People who have Schizophrenia can hear a variety of voices and noises. Painfully loud and screechy sounds and noises that are suggestive of rats are some examples.
How do you calm a person with Schizophrenia?
When trying to calm a schizophrenic person, you should use simple direction, give proper breathing space, move the person away from anything causing the reaction, and never argue.
What should people with Schizophrenia avoid?
Schizophrenics should avoid refined carbohydrates, caffeine, cigarettes, alcohol, and all stimulant drugs.
Consult an Expert
Please do not hesitate to get in touch with experts at Euromed® Clinic Center if you have symptoms of Schizophrenia. A consultation session with one of our mental health experts will help you understand the condition better. Call us now or fill the short online form to book your appointment with a psychiatrist.
Check Out Our Specialists Profiles
Dr. Bahjat Balbous
Physician Specialist PsychiatryDr. Bahjat Balbous is a DHA-licensed psychiatrist having more than 25 years of experience. He uses the latest Neurofeedback therapy in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and other related disorders.
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