Effective Treatment for Schizophrenia in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV

Schizophrenia is a severe, chronic behavioral disorder that can lead to suicidal thoughts and death if left untreated.

Schizophrenia symptoms generally start in the teen years to early adulthood. However, children sometimes develop the disorder, too. The symptoms vary from person to person but may include:

  • Hallucinations — adults most commonly hear voices that aren’t there; teens most commonly see things that aren’t there
  • Insomnia
  • Depression
  • Disorganized thinking
  • Drop in grades and participation at school
  • Irritability
  • Neglect of personal hygiene
  • Withdrawal from friends and family
  • Delusions

People with schizophrenia have an imbalance in their brain chemistry. However, researchers do not know why or how this happens. It is likely to be a combination of genetics and environmental factors such as premature birth and exposure to viruses.

Whether you are experiencing minor or severe symptoms of schizophrenia in Las Vegas or Henderson, NV, it’s important that you get the diagnosis and treatment you need to function in your everyday life. The doctors at Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican hospitals can provide personalized care.

 

Treating Schizophrenia at Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican Hospitals

There is no known cure for schizophrenia. Treatment focuses on relieving the symptoms and improving quality of life. They may include:

  • Antipsychotic medications. Aripiprazole (Abilify), asenapine (Saphris), and clozapine (Clozaril) may help reduce some symptoms, including hallucinations and delusions. These drugs allow people with schizophrenia to work with a psychologist or therapist to further manage their disorder.
  • Psychotherapy. Once medication has started to reduce symptoms, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) may help people with schizophrenia cope with other symptoms, recognize certain behaviors, and understand how to manage their reactions.
  • Hospitalization. Emergency or acute care may be necessary if someone with schizophrenia is in a crisis and may be at risk for harming himself or herself, or someone else.

Treatment for schizophrenia is lifelong and may change over time. Taking prescriptions as directed can be a real struggle for some affected individuals. Doctors and therapists often encourage families to get support to learn how to help their loved one who has the condition.

Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican provides quality care for those with schizophrenia in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV, as part of our neurological services for neurodevelopmental disorders.