Schizophrenia, from the Greek roots schizein (σχίζειν, "to split") and phrēn, phren- (φρήν, φρεν-, "mind"), is a psychiatric diagnosis that describes a mental illness characterized by impairments in the perception or expression of reality, most commonly manifesting as auditory hallucinations, paranoid or bizarre delusions or disorganized speech and thinking in the context of significant social or occupational dysfunction. More specifically, certain areas of the brain that are rich in the chemical dopamine seem to be affected most often in schizophrenia. The contributing factors associated with the development of these brain-pathway problems are controversial and are being carefully investigated. Some of the areas of current research include risk-associated genes, exposure to certain viruses or malnutrition in the womb, and stressful childhood environments in genetically susceptible children. People with catatonic schizophrenia may also need services, supervision or specialized care particularly when response to treatment isn't optimal.

People who have schizophrenia may seem different from other people. They may seem to show fewer emotions than others. They may keep to themselves and withdraw from social contact. At times they may seem slowed down, as if they don't have enough energy.

Causes of Catatonic Schizophrenia

Common Causes and Risk factors of Catatonic Schizophrenia

Psychological problems.

Biological ( Early brain development.).

Brain abnormality.

Environmental factors.

Signs and Symptoms of Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia often starts slowly. When the symptoms first appear, usually in adolescence or early adulthood, they may seem more bewildering than serious.

In the early stages, people with schizophrenia may find themselves losing the ability to relax, concentrate or sleep. They may start to shut long-time friends out of their lives. Work or school begins to suffer; so does their personal appearance. During this time, there may be one or more episodes where they talk in ways that may be difficult to understand and/or start having unusual perceptions.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on the self-reported experiences of the person as well as abnormalities in behavior reported by family members, friends or co-workers, followed by secondary signs observed by a psychiatrist, social worker, clinical psychologist or other clinician in a clinical assessment. There is a list of criteria that must be met for someone to be so diagnosed. These depend on both the presence and duration of certain signs and symptoms.

Treatment for Catatonic Schizophrenia

Antipsychotic medication shortens the duration of psychosis in Schizophrenia, and prevents recurrences (but psychotic relapses can still occur under stress). Usually it takes years before individuals can accept that they have Schizophrenia and need medication. When individuals stop their antipsychotic medication, it may take months (or even years) before they suffer a psychotic relapse. Most, however, relapse within weeks. After each psychotic relapse there is increased intellectual impairment.

Individual psychotherapy, which can help the person better understand his or her illness, and learn coping and problem-solving skills.

Family therapy, , which can help families deal more effectively with a loved one who has schizophrenia, enabling them to better help their loved one.

Prompt and effective treatment can certainly make a difference. Treatment includes counselling, social support and rehabilitation. In addition anti-psychotic medicines are available to treat the worst symptoms of the illness, such as hallucinations, but there is no "cure" at present.

Researchers are learning more and more about how the brain works. With this information, better medicines with fewer side effects can be developed so that people who have schizophrenia can live without being limited by their illness.