Psychotic Disorders
(including Schizophrenia)
Schizophrenia is a serious brain disorder. It is a disease that
makes it difficult for a person to tell the difference between
real and unreal experiences, to think logically, to have normal
emotional responses to others and to behave normally in social
situations. People with schizophrenia may also have difficulty
in remembering, talking and behaving appropriately.
Symptoms develop slowly over months or even years, and they may
be confused with those of other conditions. As the illness progresses
the person starts to act strangely and talk nonsensically, and
hallucinations may be present. Those affected may also develop
physical symptoms such as frowning or unusual movements –
they may stand or sit in strange positions, become motionless
or move around constantly.
Schizophrenia is not a "split personality." It is not
caused by bad upbringing, personal weakness or laziness. It is
a disease with a physical cause, like cancer or heart disease.
Although there is no cure, proper treatment can usually control
the symptoms. With treatment most people can lead productive and
fulfilling lives – working, living with their families and
enjoying friendships.
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