If you suspect someone you love or know has schizophrenia, what are the signs of schizophrenia you need to look out for? Are there obvious signs? Would they be clearly signs of schizophrenia or could they be other ailments that show similar symptoms. You wouldn’t want to “mis-read” the signs.
This is why, ultimately, only a qualified medical professional can make a proper diagnosis of whether a person has this medical disorder. Having said this, you should be alert to the “warning signs” that schizophrenia could be developing in your loved one or friend. Here are 10 common signs of schizophrenia –
1. Paranoia and delusions
Irrational suspicion of others, unreasonable response to normal occurrences. Also severe anxiety. Examples are the feeling that others are out to harm them, threaten them, or even poison their food.
Some people have delusions that they are someone famous or important, either from today or from history.
2. Inactivity or hyperactivity
The person remains still or quiet for extended periods of time, or just stares into space blankly. Conversely, he or she can’t keep still, moving excessively and without reason. Also, look out for unusual jerky and involuntary movements.
Another common sign to look out for is when he or she starts to talk to himself/herself.
3. Unusual/strange, or lack of emotional responses
Blank look on face despite of anything occurring around him or her. Unable to express any emotion. Has no feelings at all.
Also, moods that change rapidly, sudden irritability. Some will also react inappropriately to situations. For example laughing out loud at a sad occasion.
4. Overly or under sensitivity
The person starts to feel sounds or light are too loud or too bright.
5. Unable to concentrate
The person can’t seem to focus or to do something very basic or follow instructions. Also finds it difficult to solve simple problems. Can also manifest in forgetfulness.
6. Self-imposed social isolation
Indifference or objects to any activity involving socializing with others. Unable or unwilling to talk with others, interact, or form relationships. Continued withdrawal from social activity over time.
7. Hostility
Sudden anger, resentment or hostility towards normal things or people.
8. Lack of interest in proper personal hygiene
Completely neglects or sees no reason to take care of appearance, clothing or personal hygiene.
9. Problem sleeping
Either inability to sleep ie insomnia or excessive over-sleeping.
10. Depression
Discouraged about life or the future. Also, talk about suicide or attempts at suicide.
Do remember that signs of schizophrenia can vary depending on the person concerned. Many of the signs listed might well be found in most people to some small degree. What is critical to look out for are those instances where the behavior concerned is repeated again and again, and persists beyond normality. These might be clear signs of mental difficulty, and it is best to get the person concerned to a qualified medical practitioner (a psychologist or a psychiatrist) as soon as possible for a proper medical examination.
Important Fact #1: Possible Signs Of Schizophrenia
Look out for any of the following signs of schizophrenia -- paranoia, delusions, inactivity or hyperactivity, unusual/strange or lack of emotional responses, over or under sensitivity, self-imposed social isolation, hostility, lack of interest in proper personal hygiene and extreme depression. |
Important Fact #2: Mention Of Suicide
Patients with schizophrenia are more likely to try taking their lives. At all times, take any mention of suicide by them seriously and seek medical assistance. |
Important Fact #3: Curing Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia cannot be completely cured. However medical experts will tell you that 90% of people with the disorder can look forward to recovering to a degree that will enable them to function and lead happy lives. |
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