Although most of us are likely to believe that schizophrenia is mainly manifested by a patient with split or multiple personalities, this is a misperception “planted” in our minds by too much TV and Hollywood movies. In truth, there are at least 5 types of schizophrenia, namely –
1. Paranoid Schizophrenia
Of the many types of schizophrenia, this is probably among the better known. Paranoid schizophrenia takes the form of delusions and auditory hallucinations.
The sufferer’s delusions may include the irrational fear of being targeted for persecution, or he or she may believe they are someone famous or knows someone famous. People suffering from this can become angry, anxious, aloof or even argumentative.
2. Disorganized Schizophrenia
Sufferers will exhibit speech or behavior that is disorganized or hard to understand, or even none (or “dead”) or inappropriate response to a situation. For example, he or she might laugh when the phone rings. Disorganized schizophrenia can disrupt normal day-to-day activities like eating meals or dressing up.
3. Catatonic Schizophrenia
Sufferers tend to behave physically or verbally in an abnormal way. For example, they might remain still regardless of what is happening around them. Or they might over-react and move non-stop for no reason. They might remain silent for hours or chatter non-stop and repeat whatever you say.
Because they are caught up in the disorder, sufferers cannot lead normal lives or take care of themselves properly.
4. Undifferentiated Schizophrenia
In this case, a patient may show some of the symptoms listed above but not enough that any one type can be diagnosed
5. Residual-type Schizophrenia
This type of schizophrenia is characterized by the sufferer having a history of at minimum one schizophrenic episode but not having any positive symptoms at present (of delusions or hallucinations, or disorganized behavior or speech).
This could well be a transition between an actual episode and total remission. Or it might go on for years with no further psychotic episodes. Also referred to as a “low intensity” type.
Finally, there are 2 other sub types of schizophrenia that are recognized –
1. Post-schizophrenic Depression
Where depression occurs after a schizophrenic illness. Some low-intensity symptoms may be present as a result.
2. Simple Schizophrenia
Typically, a sufferer with no history of schizophrenia but showing signs of developing negative symptoms.
Hopefully, the above outline of the different types of schizophrenia will enable you to better understand this disorder and identify the initial signs of schizophrenia if it were to manifest in your loved ones or the people around you.
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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