Schizophrenia

The cause of schizophrenia is unclear, though some mental health experts believe it is related to heredity or biology.  Schizophrenia usually manifests during a time of chemical and physical change, like that of puberty.  

The signs of schizophrenia are different for everyone. Symptoms may develop slowly over months or years, or may appear very abruptly. The disease may come and go in cycles of relapse and remission.

Behaviors that are early warning signs of schizophrenia include:

• Hearing or seeing something that isn’t there
• A constant feeling of being watched
• Peculiar or nonsensical way of speaking or writing
• Strange body positioning
• Feeling indifferent to very important situations
• Deterioration of academic or work performance
• A change in personal hygiene and appearance
• A change in personality
• Increasing withdrawal from social situations
• Irrational, angry or fearful response to loved ones
• Inability to sleep or concentrate
• Inappropriate or bizarre behavior
• Extreme preoccupation with religion or the occult

There are different types of schizophrenia and a multitude of different treatments, but there is no cure at the present time.  If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the symptoms, a medical professional should be consulted.  

For more information, visit:
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/schizophrenia/what-are-the-symptoms-of-schizophrenia.shtml