Residential Treatment for Schizophrenia in Georgia
What Is Schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a psychotic disorder that affects a person’s ability to think and communicate clearly as well as perform daily functions. According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness, it is estimated that .25% - .64% of U.S. adults experience this complex and far-reaching mental illness. While the most well-known symptoms of schizophrenia are delusions and hallucinations, these are not the only symptoms, and this condition presents in three phases: prodromal phase, active (or acute) phase, and the residual or recovery phase.
Depending on the phase of schizophrenia you or your loved one is in, different symptoms are presented. Typically, people who struggle with schizophrenia cycle through these stages:
- Prodromal phase: This stage presents the most subtle symptoms, which might include social withdrawal, trouble concentrating, anxiety, a drop in performance, and a lack of motivation.
- Active phase: Often referred to as a “psychotic break”, this stage is when the most major symptoms of schizophrenia present themselves, including delusions, hallucinations, incoherent communication, unusual movements, a decrease in the presentation of emotion—such as a lack of facial expression, gestures, or flat emotionless speech.
- Residual phase: While people in this stage will still exhibit some symptoms of schizophrenia, they are often less severe than those present in the active phase. These symptoms might include paranoia, lack of motivation, and a reduction in enjoyment and emotional expression.
While schizophrenia can occur at any time, symptoms typically present in males around their late teens and early 20s, and in females around their late 20s to early 30s.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of schizophrenia?
- Symptoms of schizophrenia may include hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren't there), delusions (false beliefs), disorganized thinking, lack of motivation, social withdrawal, and impaired cognition.
What causes schizophrenia?
- The exact cause of schizophrenia is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurochemical factors.
How is schizophrenia diagnosed?
- Schizophrenia is diagnosed based on a comprehensive evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and psychiatric assessment conducted by a mental health professional.
What are the treatment options for schizophrenia?
- Treatment options for schizophrenia typically include antipsychotic medications, psychotherapy, and psychosocial interventions such as supportive therapy and social skills training.
Can schizophrenia be cured?
- While there is no cure for schizophrenia, treatment can effectively manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for individuals with the disorder.
How does schizophrenia affect daily life and functioning?
- Schizophrenia can significantly impact daily functioning, making it challenging to maintain relationships, work, or pursue education or hobbies.
What are the risk factors for developing schizophrenia?
- Risk factors for developing schizophrenia include genetics, early life stressors, prenatal exposure to toxins or infections, and drug use during adolescence.
Are there lifestyle changes or coping strategies that can help manage symptoms?
- Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and minimizing stress can help manage symptoms of schizophrenia.
Contact us at (770) 637-7474 to learn more about schizophrenia treatment options in Georgia.
Integrated Treatment for Schizophrenia
Why Choose Red Top Wellness Center for Schizophrenia Treatment?
Schizophrenia can drastically impact a person’s daily life and relationships—and while there is no cure for this condition, ongoing care can help patients manage symptoms and live healthy, satisfied lives. At Red Top Wellness Center, we specialize in in-patient, residential care for mental health conditions—and our licensed and experienced therapists will tailor every treatment plan to your unique needs. We integrate both clinical modalities, medication, and holistic therapies to provide truly comprehensive care throughout your stay.
- Medication: Antipsychotic medications, whether typical or atypical, are the most common medications used to treat schizophrenia and often work by blocking how a person’s brain utilizes dopamine and serotonin.
- Psychotherapy: Our licensed therapists offer cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Whether used in isolation or in combination with each other, our psychotherapy treatments are designed to help patients recognize abnormal thoughts and behaviors, develop new patterns, and process the emotions associated with a schizophrenia diagnosis.
- Integrated Treatments: There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for schizophrenia, which is why we take pride in offering a range of other therapies, such as art and music therapy, family therapy and biosound therapy.
We offer these innovative and evidence-based treatment methods in our comfortable, world-class facility. Every patient receives a safe and private room, so there isn’t a feeling of staying in a hospital. Our exceptional staff prioritizes your health and wellness throughout your stay, and we provide resources and education to help you feel confident after your stay. If you or a loved one is suffering from schizophrenia, our staff is on your side to provide the quality care and support you deserve.
If you or a loved one is in need of mental health care, call us at (770) 637-7474 or fill out our contact form today.