Schizophrenia (cont.)
What is the outlook for the future?
The outlook for people with schizophrenia continues to improve. Although
there is no cure, treatments that work well are available. Many people with
schizophrenia improve enough to lead independent, satisfying lives.
Continued research and understanding in genetics, neuroscience, and
behavioral science will help scientists and health professionals understand the
causes of the disorder and how it may be predicted and prevented. This work will
help experts develop better treatments to help people with schizophrenia achieve
their full potential. Families and individuals who are living with schizophrenia
are encouraged to participate in clinical research. For up-to-date information
about the latest NIMH-funded research in schizophrenia, see the NIMH Web site.
For more information on schizophrenia
National Institute of Mental Health
Science Writing, Press & Dissemination Branch
6001 Executive Boulevard
Room 8184, MSC 9663
Bethesda, MD 20892-9663
Phone: 301-443-4513 or
1-866-615-NIMH (6464) toll-free
TTY: 301-443-8431
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E-mail: nimhinfo@nih.gov
Web site: http://www.nimh.nih.gov
- Schizophrenia is an extremely puzzling condition, the most
chronic
and disabling of the major mental illnesses. Approximately 1
percent of
the population develop schizophrenia during their lives.
- With the sudden onset of severe psychotic symptoms,
the individual is said to be experiencing acute schizophrenia.
"Psychotic" means
out of touch with reality, or unable to separate real from
unreal
experiences.
- There is no known single cause of schizophrenia. As
discussed later,
it appears that genetic factors produce a vulnerability to
schizophrenia, with environmental factors contributing to
different
degrees in different individuals.
- There are a number of various treatments for schizophrenia.
Given the
complexity of schizophrenia, the major questions about this
disorder,
its cause or causes, prevention, and treatment, are unlikely
to be
resolved in the near future. The public should beware of
those offering
"the cure" for (or "the cause" of)
schizophrenia.
SOURCE:
National Institute of Mental
Health, National Institutes of Health, www.nimh.nih.gov
Last Editorial Review: 10/30/2009
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