While only approximately one percent of individuals in the United States suffer from schizophrenia, it is a disorder with a very negative stigma. However, it is important to keep in mind that individuals with schizophrenia are not a danger to other individuals. They also do not have multiple personalities. Newark residents should remember that, like other mental illnesses, it is not always a disease that manifests itself with physical symptoms. Nevertheless, it can be extremely debilitating.
When a person is having an active schizophrenic episode, they will experience a number of very serious and life-altering symptoms. For example, there are positive psychotic symptoms, in which the person may hallucinate, become delusional and have an exaggerated sense of self.
Those with schizophrenia may also have disorganization symptoms. For example, become confused or even have problems thinking logically altogether. They may even behave in ways that seem bizarre.
A person with schizophrenia may also exhibit negative symptoms. The may find themselves to be unmotivated, unemotional or unable to find once-enjoyed activities pleasurable. They may have difficulties speaking as well.
Finally, individuals with schizophrenia may have impaired cognition. They may have problems keeping attention on the tasks they are trying to do. They may also have difficulties remembering things.
Both women and men suffer from schizophrenia, although the onset of the illness usually manifests itself earlier in men. There is a significant variation between individuals with regards to both the cause of their schizophrenia, how severe their episodes may be, how long their episodes will last and how often they will have episodes of schizophrenia.
As you can imagine, it is difficult to live with schizophrenia. When a person has frequent active episodes, they may not be able to take care of their day-to-day needs. Sometimes (although not always) they may need to be hospitalized. In fact, the Social Security Administration includes schizophrenic disorders in its “Listing of Impairments.” That means that if an individual with schizophrenia meets the requirements in the Listing of Impairments, he or she may consider filing for disability benefits, in order to obtain the financial resources they need to take care of themselves if, due to their mental disorder, they are unable to work to earn a living.
