If you or a loved one experience delusions, hallucinations, or behavior problems, schizophrenia might be the culprit. If you suspect you have schizophrenia or another mental health disorder, Salisu Aikoye, MD, and the expert team at Sal Psychiatry Services in Norwalk, California, are here for you. They can diagnose and treat schizophrenia to give you a better quality of life. Schedule an appointment with Sal Psychiatry Services over the phone or book online today. Telehealth visits are also available.
Schizophrenia is a mental health disorder in which you have an abnormal sense of reality. You might experience disordered thinking or disabling behavior impairment. The condition often requires lifelong treatment, but getting treated early can help you, or a loved one, better control symptoms to prevent serious complications.
Common signs and symptoms associated with schizophrenia often include the following:
Complications that can result from untreated schizophrenia include suicide attempts, anxiety disorders, drug or alcohol misuse, and inability to attend school or work. Financial problems, homelessness, social isolation, health problems, or being victimized might also occur.
Certain factors increase your risk of developing schizophrenia. Examples include genetics, family history of schizophrenia, taking mind-altering drugs as a teenager or young adult, and being exposed to toxins, certain viruses, or malnutrition during pregnancy.
To find out if you or a loved one has schizophrenia, your doctor reviews your medical history and symptoms. They complete a physical examination to detect or rule out underlying medical problems. Your psychiatrist may recommend you undergo specific diagnostic tests.
They complete a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to determine if you meet the criteria for schizophrenia or another mental health condition.
If you or a loved one has schizophrenia, your psychiatric specialist might recommend the following treatments:
Taking antipsychotic medications, antidepressants, or anti-anxiety medicines helps control symptoms related to schizophrenia. Your psychiatrist personalizes each medication regimen to give you the best results.
Psychotherapy is another common treatment for schizophrenia. Your specialist might suggest individual therapy, family therapy, social skills training, vocational rehabilitation, or supported employment.
If you experience severe symptoms or crisis periods, hospitalization helps ensure proper nutrition and sleep, safety, and adequate basic hygiene.
Don’t let schizophrenia symptoms negatively affect your life or the life of a loved one. Schedule an appointment with Sal Psychiatry Services by phone or book online to receive treatment today.