1. When the Brain Chemistry Misfires
Schizophrenia interferes with a person's perceptions, emotions and behavior. In this brain disorder chemicals called neurotransmitters, which carry information in the brain, do not function the way they are supposed to. There are several subtypes of schizophrenia with slightly different sets of symptoms. People with paranoid schizophrenia have incorrect beliefs, called delusions, about who they are and what other people are thinking and doing around them. For example, they may believe that the government or alien beings are spying on them. They may believe that they possess special knowledge that others are trying to get, or that they have to convey to others. This kind of delusional thinking is a hallmark of paranoid schizophrenia.
2. Experiencing Unreal Voices or Thoughts
Often other symptoms accompany the delusional thoughts that are part of paranoid schizophrenia. Auditory hallucinations of voices or other sounds are a common symptom in paranoid schizophrenia. The person may hear voices in his head that comment on what is going on or that give commands. People with schizophrenia often have difficulty with interpersonal interaction. They may not exhibit emotional responses, non-verbal communication or make eye contact the way other people do. The array of symptoms may also include lack of motivation, depression, anxiety, apathy, disorganized thinking and odd behavior. Schizophrenic disorders usually begin in late adolescence or early adulthood.
3. Drug Treatments Available
Treatment for paranoid schizophrenia is medication. Psychiatrists prescribe drugs that can help control delusional thinking, hallucinations, depression and anxiety. Certain symptoms like apathy and lack of motivation do not respond very well to medication. For some people with schizophrenia these symptoms remain present for most of the time. When people are taking anti-psychotic medications, the drugs that treat delusions and hallucinations, they need to see a doctor regularly. Some of these medications have potentially dangerous side effects, so it is important to closely monitor usage.
4. Stay Active and Focused
Both social support and meaningful activity are very important for people with schizophrenia, but they may have trouble seeking these out on their own. Community mental health programs where people with illnesses like schizophrenia can go during the day are an excellent resource. People with mental illness can be with others and participate in work or leisure activities. Family support is also important. Although a person with schizophrenia can often manage his own personal affairs, family members can help him stay organized, make sound decisions and keep track of appointments and medications.
5. Help for Family Members
Families caring for or helping a person with schizophrenia will need support. Family support groups and organizations like the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill offer valuable sources of social and emotional support, information and other resources to mentally ill persons and their families.
