Schizophrenia

If you’re living with schizophrenia, you may experience delusions and hallucinations that disrupt your life and relationships. While there’s no cure for schizophrenia, adult and adolescent psychiatrist Reginald J. Sincere, PMHNP-BC, and his team at Sincere Psychiatry in Delray Beach, Florida, offer personalized treatments to help you manage your condition and lead a full, healthy, and productive life. Call the office to schedule a consultation or book online today. Telemedicine services are also available.

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia causes hallucinations, disordered thinking, and delusions. A common misconception is that schizophrenia causes “multiple” or “split” personalities. In truth, it’s a complex, often misunderstood psychiatric disorder resulting in the inability to identify reality.

Schizophrenia affects about 1% of the population, with men being more likely to have schizophrenia than women. The condition is lifelong, usually presenting in early adulthood. It’s a chronic disorder requiring ongoing treatment to manage and control the symptoms. 

People with schizophrenia face complex challenges but can lead an active and fulfilling life with proper care and treatment.

What symptoms does schizophrenia cause?

Schizophrenia symptoms may be mild or severe and differ from person to person. Common schizophrenia symptoms include having inaccurate beliefs (delusions) and confused or disordered thoughts and speech.

You might experience difficulties with memory and concentration and find it hard to understand or express your emotions. People with schizophrenia often experience hallucinations, seeing things that aren’t there, such as people who don’t exist.

Schizophrenia can lead to self-destructive behaviors, creating additional challenges. For instance, if you have schizophrenia, your risk of developing a substance use disorder increases significantly.

Other potential complications of schizophrenia include depression and anxiety, an inability to go to work or school, social isolation, and legal or financial problems. Some people with schizophrenia start self-harming or attempt suicide.

Why would I have schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia’s exact cause is unknown, but certain risk factors increase your likelihood of developing it. The most significant is a family history of the disease or other mental health disorders. Other possible risk factors include:

• Autoimmune disorders
• Malnutrition during early life
• Exposure to certain toxins in childhood
• Psychoactive drug misuse

Research indicates that a chemical imbalance in your brain could increase your risk. Psychiatrists and researchers have completed neurological imaging studies showing that people’s brains differ when they have schizophrenia.

How is schizophrenia treated?

Following a comprehensive assessment, the team of experts at Sincere Psychiatry provides patient-centered care to help you or your loved one manage schizophrenia and maintain a healthy, active life.

Schizophrenia treatment combines antipsychotics and other medications, talk therapy, and social support. There’s no cure for schizophrenia, but you can live a long, rewarding life with appropriate treatment.

If you or someone close is experiencing symptoms of schizophrenia, call Sincere Psychiatry or schedule an appointment online today. Telemedicine services are also available.