Schizophrenia frequently causes problems in social and cognitive functioning. For instance, people with the disorder may experience problems communicating with others and maintaining attention and concentration.

How schizophrenia may affect their friends and family?

Individuals with schizophrenia may be emotionally unavailable because of preoccupation with their mental stress. As a result, family members may feel rejected and lonely. b. Family members often experience these negative symptoms as more disturbing than the other (positive) symptoms (Pollio, North & Foster, 1998).

How does schizophrenia affect peoples daily lives?

Because of these symptoms, people with schizophrenia are often unable to cope with everyday tasks, such as work and household chores. Suicide and self-harm are common in people with a diagnosis of schizophrenia: around one in 10 take their own life.

Does schizophrenia affect a certain group of people?

Schizophrenia affects men and women equally. It occurs at similar rates in all ethnic groups around the world. Symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions usually start between ages 16 and 30. Men tend to experience symptoms earlier than women.

What happens to the brain when you have schizophrenia?

In schizophrenia, dopamine is tied to hallucinations and delusions. Thats because brain areas that run on dopamine may become overactive. Antipsychotic drugs stop this. Glutamate is a chemical involved in the part of the brain that forms memories and helps us learn new things.