Among mental illnesses, psychotic disorders (psychosis) are a category of serious conditions. These are illnesses where the patient does not have the insight to recognize that they are unwell. The most significant psychotic disorder is schizophrenia. This illness, which severely disrupts the future of the affected individuals, typically strikes young men and women between the ages of twenty and thirty. Schizophrenia is a mental disorder that affects a person’s thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and ability to function. It is estimated that about one percent of the population suffers from schizophrenia. Usually, the symptoms begin to appear at the onset of youth. This illness affects both men and women equally.

Symptoms

Symptoms are categorized into positive symptoms and negative symptoms. Positive symptoms include hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, incoherent speech, and poor attention to personal hygiene. Negative symptoms include lack of attention, loss of interest in activities, emotional flatness, and social withdrawal. If such symptoms persist continuously for more than six months, a diagnosis of schizophrenia should be considered.

Causes

There is no evidence to suggest that schizophrenia is caused by a single factor. Researchers have identified that the likelihood of developing the disorder increases when two major factors combine: genetic and environmental. A defect in a specific gene alone does not cause this illness. However, dysfunction in a combination of genes can increase the risk of schizophrenia. These genetic irregularities affect the neural circuits in the brain, which in turn severely impacts thinking patterns. They also disrupt the balance of certain brain chemicals like dopamine. Dopamine has been identified as playing a role in delusions and hallucinations. However, these genetic and chemical factors account for only 50% of the cause. The remaining 50% stems from environmental factors. Traumatic events during the early stages of life, especially childhood trauma, significantly increase the risk of schizophrenia—doubling the likelihood in some cases.

Treatment Approaches

There is no medication or treatment currently available that can completely cure schizophrenia. However, by treating the symptoms, the quality of life of patients can be significantly improved. Today, safe antipsychotic medications are available for treatment. These treatments must be continued long-term under the supervision of a psychiatrist. A healthy family environment plays a crucial role in preventing the condition from worsening. Through scientific understanding of mental illnesses, society must eliminate social stigma and embrace individuals with such conditions compassionately, integrating them into the mainstream of society. This inclusive approach is a vital part of rehabilitation programs for schizophrenia.

Rev. Dr. Sijon Kuzhikkattumyalil