Schizophrenia is a serious mental health condition that changes how a person thinks, feels, and experiences the world. It affects approximately 24 million people worldwide and can be effectively managed with proper treatment, allowing people to lead meaningful lives.
The condition makes it difficult for someone to Show Full Answer
Schizophrenia is a serious mental health condition that changes how a person thinks, feels, and experiences the world. It affects approximately 24 million people worldwide and can be effectively managed with proper treatment, allowing people to lead meaningful lives.
The condition makes it difficult for someone to distinguish between what's real and what isn't. It's important to note that schizophrenia is not the same as having multiple personalities, despite the Greek origin of its name meaning "split mind." Common symptoms include:
β’ Disorganized speech - difficulty communicating clearly or jumping between topics
β’ Disorganized behavior - acting erratically or inappropriately for situations
β’ Emotional changes - showing little emotion or displaying emotions that don't match circumstances
β’ Paranoid thoughts - such as believing someone is trying to cause harm
The condition typically develops in late teens or early adulthood, with men usually being diagnosed between ages 18-25 and women between 25-35. While the exact cause isn't known, research suggests it develops from a combination of genetics, environment, and brain chemistry.
August 3