Schizophrenia is a mental disorder that adversely affects a person’s ability to think or process emotions accurately, and also often causes patients to interpret reality abnormally. It’s believed that altered brain chemistry may play a role in development of the disease, along with genetics. Below are three early signs of schizophrenia:
1. Social withdraw
Just as the name implies, a person suffering from social withdrawal has a tendency to keep to themselves. They may not interact with others and may even stop participating in activities they once enjoyed. Social withdrawal can manifest through a variety of symptoms. Ultimately, it may make it virtually impossible for the patient to maintain their previous routine. This is precisely what makes it such a good early indicator of the disease. It’s also one of the main early symptoms of schizophrenia. However, it’s also closely linked to other mental health conditions such as depression and even anxiety. Therefore, it’s important to see a qualified mental health professional in order to get a thorough evaluation. Many people who are suffering from social withdrawal show clinical signs of depression. This can make it difficult to think clearly or to focus on certain tasks for any length of time. The patient may want to seclude themselves in a room or stay in bed all day. They may also stop participating in a personal hygiene routine.
2. Problems displaying emotion
People who show early signs of schizophrenia may have a great deal of trouble controlling their emotions. This goes beyond being sensitive or having a short fuse. Those who are suffering from the condition may have extreme outbursts of emotion. Conversely, they may display virtually no emotion at all. Imagine feeling every emotion to such an extreme that you can’t control your actions. That’s precisely how it can be for those who suffer from schizophrenia. When they feel anger or sadness, they may cry endlessly or rage out of control. On the other hand, they may seem devoid of all emotion, regardless of outside circumstances.
3. Changes in sleep patterns
The schizophrenic patient is likely to have significant changes in sleeping habits, even early on. For instance, they may sleep far too much. Some may not sleep at all. If it is a dramatic departure from previous sleep patterns, it’s worth talking to someone about it. A lack of sleep only tends to make hallucinations and other more advanced symptoms of the condition worse. Sleeping too much can cause worsening depression. All of this can have a detrimental impact on the patient who is beginning to show signs of schizophrenia. It’s also important to remember that the individual in question may not fully understand what is happening to them any more than you do. Patience and understanding is a key component of finding effective help.
This is a condition that may not become evident until a person is in their teens or later. However, once a person does start showing signs of the disease, it’s imperative that quality mental health treatment be provided. Typically, a schizophrenic patient will receive treatment for the condition for the remainder of their life. That said, the disease can usually be well managed with the proper treatment, allowing those who exhibit schizophrenic tendencies to lead healthy, relatively normal lives. It all comes down to recognizing the potential signs of the disease early and then taking action to develop an effective treatment plan.
