Schizophrenia

What is Schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental health disorder that usually presents with highly disruptive symptoms that interrupt even routine tasks. Commonly, schizophrenia symptoms are most noticeable as unusual mood swings and hallucinations.

Schizophrenia symptoms often include:

• Hallucinations: Experiencing sensations that are not real, such as hearing voices.
• Delusions: Strongly held false beliefs that are resistant to reason or contrary evidence.
• Disorganized thinking: Difficulty in maintaining coherent and logical thought patterns.
• Lack of motivation: A noticeable decline in the drive to perform everyday activities.
• Social withdrawal: Avoidance of social interactions and a preference for solitude.
• Impaired functioning: Difficulty in carrying out daily tasks and responsibilities effectively.

Thanks to advancements in medicine, schizophrenia can often be treated with medication that suppresses its worst symptoms. Frequent therapy sessions can also help people with schizophrenia cope with the emotional and mental struggles caused by this disorder.

Is There a Link Between Schizophrenia & Substance Addiction?

There is a link between schizophrenia and substance addiction, as people with schizophrenia are at a higher risk of developing substance use disorders. This connection often arises from attempts to self-medicate the distressing symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations or anxiety, using drugs or alcohol. Additionally, genetic predispositions and environmental influences can contribute to the co-occurrence of these conditions. It is important to address both schizophrenia and substance addiction together in treatment, as this dual approach can lead to more effective management of symptoms and better outcomes.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment for People with Schizophrenia

Dual diagnosis treatments for people with schizophrenia place a strong emphasis on therapy, recognizing the necessity of addressing both mental health and substance use disorders together. Therapy can help manage symptoms that are not suppressed by medication, as well as improve coping mechanisms. By integrating therapeutic approaches, you can work toward understanding your condition and reducing the risk of symptom relapses or triggers.

Therapy that could help you handle schizophrenia complications are:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): Helps in identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that may contribute to schizophrenia challenges like disorganized thinking.
• Family therapy: Involves family members to support your recovery and improve communication.
• Group therapy: Allows you to speak with other schizophrenic people about your experience, so you never feel alone during your treatment.

While you are attending therapy, you can also work on fighting substance addiction with our other treatment options. You can stand up to both challenges at once with our support.

Reach Out If You Need Help – Call Now

If you or a loved one is struggling with both schizophrenia and substance addiction, The Lakes Treatment Center in NorCal wants to help. Our dual diagnosis care specialists offer a personalized treatment plan that acknowledges both challenges and how to overcome them together. In our supportive environment, you’ll find compassionate professionals ready to guide you through recovery, helping you manage symptoms and embrace a healthier life. Remember, seeking professional help is a powerful step towards positive change, and you are not alone in this journey.