Paranoid Schizophrenia

Paranoid Schizophrenia

Paranoid schizophrenia is just one of several types of schizophrenia. Someone who suffers from paranoid schizophrenia has symptoms such as delusions and hearing things that are not real. In most cases, the individual loses touch with reality. They also will show signs of anxiety, anger, violence, and suicidal behavior. Paranoid schizophrenia is a brain disorder with genetics and environmental pressures playing an important role in its development.

Diagnosing paranoid schizophrenia usually involves three tests; a physical exam, laboratory tests, and a psychological evaluation. They will want to talk to you about your thoughts, feelings and behavior patterns. It is also possible that the doctor would like to talk to your friends and family. To be diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, you must meet the symptom criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. These criteria include a preoccupation with one or more delusions and frequent auditory hallucinations.

Once diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia you need to receive lifelong treatment, even if your symptoms seem to get better. It is very likely that you will need to work with multiple people since this disorder effects many areas of your life. Some of the people you may work with are psychiatrists, psychotherapist, pharmacist, and even your family members. There are also several treatment options such as medications, psychotherapy, hospitalization, electroconvulsive therapy, and vocational skills training.

It is very difficult to have a mental disorder and learning how to cope is very important. It is important to take your medications as directed, pay attention to warning signs, and try and avoid drugs and alcohol. Also it may be very beneficial to join a support group. Support groups are a very good way to open up to others because they share your same problems. It is very important to educate yourself about paranoid schizophrenia so you can more easily...