Schizophrenia

In psychiatry, schizophrenia is understood as a long-term disorder characterized by a combination of psychotic, cognitive, and emotional disturbances.

This condition is marked by a distortion of contact with reality, difficulties in organizing thoughts and behavior, as well as a significant reduction in everyday functionality.

Among the main signs, common disturbances include perceptual disorders, delusional ideas, and a reduction in motivation, which can lead to social maladaptation and problems in daily life.

Key symptoms:

• Psychotic manifestations: hallucinations, delusions, distorted perception of the surrounding world.
• Disruptions in thinking and speech: incoherence, associations without clear logic, difficulties in formulating thoughts.
• Negative symptoms: apathy, reduced motivation, social isolation, limited empathy and emotional response.
• Cognitive impairments: problems with attention, working memory, and decision-making, affecting studies, work, and daily life.

Epidemiology and Development

The onset often occurs in late adolescence or early adulthood. The prevalence is estimated at about 1% of the population; in men, the onset usually occurs earlier, while in women it tends to have a milder onset and different dynamics.

Without proper medical support, the disorder can have a chronic course with periods of remission and exacerbation, requiring long-term support and rehabilitation.

Diagnosis and Differentiation

The diagnosis is established based on clinical assessment, history taking, observations of symptom dynamics, and the exclusion of other causes of psychosis. The duration and nature of symptoms, as well as their impact on daily activities, are important.

Differential diagnosis includes depressive and bipolar disorders with psychotic manifestations, schizotypal disorder, and certain medical conditions (neurological, metabolic) that may simulate psychosis.

Treatment and Support

Effective treatment requires a comprehensive approach: pharmacotherapy (antipsychotics), psychotherapy, social support, and rehabilitation activities. Management should be conducted under the supervision of a psychiatrist, taking into account the side effects of medications and somatic risks. The role of a nutritionist in this context is to support nutrition, monitor body weight, prevent metabolic complications, and provide recommendations for healthy habits that support the overall condition of the body.