Seeing a Psychiatrist for Schizophrenia

The idea of seeing a psychiatrist may seem overwhelming for someone just starting their mental health journey. However, seeing a psychiatrist will help you clarify the possibility of diagnosing various conditions--including schizophrenia.

Understanding schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a severe mental health disorder that affects a person’s perception of reality. Although it is a rare condition, it may impair daily living. This condition may potentially become dangerous to yourself or others if it isn’t treated.

The stages of schizophrenia

There are three stages of schizophrenia. The symptoms vary depending on the stage you are in.

Stage 1 – onset

This is the beginning stage before more severe symptoms start to show up. In this stage, you will likely start to isolate yourself from others, stop taking care of your hygiene, and feel unmotivated. In addition, you may start feeling more anxious.

Stage 2 – active

This is the second stage, where you will likely start having psychotic symptoms, also known as a psychotic break. At this point, you will likely be out of touch with reality, such as having hallucinations and delusions.

Stage 3 – residual

This is the third stage where the symptoms aren’t as severe, but you will likely still present some of them. You may have strange beliefs, have a lack of enjoyment, and be less likely to express yourself. It’s important to note that this stage is temporary, meaning that the symptoms will likely present themselves again at some point.

Symptoms in the active stage

The active stage is where you are likely to be experiencing the five primary symptoms of schizophrenia.

Delusions are likely to be experienced

You may start having delusions, which are beliefs that aren’t true. Even if these beliefs are proven wrong, you may still stubbornly believe they are true.

You may experience hallucinations

With this symptom, you will likely see or hear things that aren’t present. Such hallucinations can include hearing voices.

Incoherent speaking may be present

You may have trouble putting your thoughts together or making sense of them. In addition, you jump from one topic to another to the point where others can’t comprehend what you’re saying.

Making strange movements

You may start making movements that seem childish due to feeling uncomfortable. These movements can also come out of nowhere.

Presenting negative emotions

This symptom doesn’t mean that what you are saying is bad. Rather, it is a symptom that affects your inability to express your emotions, which may cause your voice to sound flat.

Treatment options for schizophrenia

A psychiatrist can prescribe you medication such as antipsychotics to control your symptoms. In addition, it is strongly encouraged to seek counseling to also help you build healthy management skills. Electroconvulsive therapy may also be a good option.