Schizophrenia is a brain disorder that disrupts and distorts the way a person thinks, expresses feelings, views reality, and relates to other people. The effects of it can be so deep and pervasive that it changes behavior, speech, and more. Though schizophrenia can vary from one individual to the next, some of the most commonly occurring symptoms include delusions, hallucinations, and a lack of emotion in speech and in facial expressions.
Schizophrenia can often present with a co-occurring disorder, in many cases addiction. Those who struggle with symptoms of schizophrenia may reach for drugs or alcohol to self-medicate, leading to the development of a substance use disorder. This makes dual diagnosis care imperative for anyone seeking to live a life free from the constraints of schizophrenia and its symptoms.
Early Warning Signs
Though it is possible for schizophrenia’s symptoms to begin abruptly, with little or no warning, it is much more common for them to come on slowly, with plenty of subtle signs along the way. Recognizing these warning signs can prepare you to seek treatment sooner rather than later, which can make the recovery process far more effective. Some of the early warning signs to watch out for include.
Get Help at our Treatment Center for Schizophrenia and Substance Use
Have you observed the early warning signs, either in yourself or in a loved one? If so, it is imperative that you seek clinical intervention. With the right mental health treatment and medical care, the symptoms can be managed, and recovery can be sustained over the course of a lifetime.
Getting that initial diagnosis and forming a treatment plan are essential. For individuals trying to manage schizophrenia and substance use disorders, WestBridge offers evidence-based treatment and real results. Learn more about the recovery process by contacting the WestBridge team today.
WestBridge provides evidence-based treatment for adults and their families experiencing mental illness with or without substance use.