Common Symptoms of Schizophrenia
Three common symptoms in people with schizophrenia that require treatment are psychosis, anxiety, and depression.
Symptoms of Psychosis
Psychotic symptoms are unusual thoughts and experiences that are caused by problems in your brain. These unusual thoughts, beliefs, stories, people, or conversations may seem as real as the people and experiences in the world around you. It may be hard to figure out if something is really happening or if you are experiencing a psychotic symptom. Common psychotic symptoms include hallucinations in the form of sounds, voices, images, odors, or tastes.
Another kind of psychotic symptom is disorganized thinking. You may have difficulty getting your thoughts together and expressing them. People with schizophrenia may find it hard to focus on what others are saying.
Anxiety Associated With Schizophrenia
Anxiety symptoms refer to having a sense of fear, nervousness, or danger that does not fit the situation. For example, it is normal to be frightened if you are in a car accident. However, if your fears about getting into an accident prevent you from driving a car, then you have an anxiety symptom. Anxiety symptoms can also be related to other kinds of symptoms or conditions, such as depression or psychosis. For instance, hearing threatening voices that others do not hear may cause you to feel very anxious.
Depressive Symptoms of Schizophrenia
Feelings of depression can be normal. They may occur following a setback like losing a job or the breakup of a romantic relationship. However, when depression lasts for an extended period or becomes so severe that it prevents you from functioning in your daily routine, it is considered a symptom. Some symptoms of depression include:
- A persistent depressed mood (lasting more than 2 weeks)
- Hopelessness
- Suicidal thoughts
Talk to Your Doctor
If you have additional questions or concerns about this topic, talk to your doctor.
