oid schizophrenia. Paranoid schizophrenics usually have a single theme or idea on which they focus their delusions and hallucinations. They are constantly afraid that people are “out to get them”. The second type of schizophrenia is disorganized schizophrenia. Disorganized type schizophrenics show very unorganized behavior. Facial grimaces, extreme withdrawal, and constant health complaints are typical symptoms of this type of schizophrenia. Hallucinations and delusions are symptoms of all types of schizophrenia, but the disorganized schizophrenic also exhibits senseless laughter and silliness. The third type of schizophrenia is catatonic. Someone with catatonic schizophrenia may hold a single position for hours on end. This is called a “stupor”. Their condition resembles that of suspended animation. Sometimes the person is rigid and hard to move, but at other times may flail around highly excited for no apparent reason. Although, through use of newer medications, catatonic schizophrenia is rare today.Medication has been the most successful treatment by far. Antipsychotic drugs do little for helping the patient understand and deal with various aspects of their illness. Because of this, psychotherapy is absolutely necessary along with medication. Alarmingly, a recent study shows that only a third of schizophrenia patients are getting the correct dose of medicine, while another third are being prescribed doses that are too high. Higher doses can sometimes lead to depression and eventual suicide. Side effects of antipsychotic drugs include such things as skin problems, the shakes, and weight gain. Although, the overall benefit of these medicines is greater than the inconveniences.Not all treatments for schizophrenia have seemed so practical under today’s standards. In the past, some schizophrenia patients had holes bored in their skulls to “release the evil spirits”. Others were chained to walls in...
