Schizophrenia is one of the most damaging psychiatric disorders.
Schizophrenia is a biologically based disorder that impairs reality contact, perception, judgment, decision-making, clarity of thinking, and emotional life. Not all is understood about this disorder, but treatment has come far in recent decades.
Up to two million people in the United States have schizophrenia. It needs to be caught early in its development to reduce its pernicious effects as the disease develops.
Symptoms of Schizophrenia include hallucinations, delusions, difficulty with abstract thinking, social detachment, or bizarre behavior. When symptoms emerge, there is typically a drop in a person’s level of social or academic functioning. Substance use can worsen likelihood of the disorder developing.
Psychotherapeutic interventions can augment the medical treatment of this disorder, improve functioning, increase the quality of life, and help guide relatives through the challenging experience of caring for an individual with schizophrenia.
However, this therapy can be different from other types of therapy, best done by a specialist in the area. It is essential to find a psychologist who understands the disorder, its severity, the critical role of the family, and the need for multi-approach treatment.
Early diagnosis is key to a good prognosis, and having an expert like Dr. LaBarbera work with you or your family member is essential. A family often does not know what to do, and seasoned, informed treatment is necessary.
Call Damon G. LaBarbera, PhD, today or book an appointment online for informed schizophrenia care.