SERVICES

PSYCHOSIS

Psychotic disorders, for example, schizophrenia, are psychiatric illnesses characterised by a distortion of reality presented through false images from hallucinations with the patient exhibiting delusional behaviour. Because these disorders are such severe illnesses, progressive lifelong treatment is required. Dr Singh aims to treat this complex mental disease through a combination of medications and psychotherapy sessions.

 
 
 

WHAT IS SCHIZOPHRENIA?

Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder that requires lifelong treatment. Schizophrenia, classified as a brain disorder, makes it difficult to distinguish between what’s real or not. People with schizophrenia struggle with delusions and hallucinations as a result of impaired cognitive thinking. If left untreated, this form of mental illness will affect their livelihood and inhibit them from forming meaningful relationships.

WHAT CAUSES SCHIZOPHRENIA?

Men and women are both susceptible to schizophrenia, but men are more likely to develop the condition and are usually diagnosed with the condition in their early twenties. Although it is challenging to determine the cause of psychotic disorders, scientists link its development to the elimination of nerve cells as the brain matures.

 
 
 

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF SCHIZOPHRENIA?

Schizophrenia is predominately marked by hallucinations and delusions as well as poor self-care. From the onset after the prodromal phase of the disorder characterised by social isolation, the patient experiences an active period of schizophrenia. During this active period of the illness, the person displays symptoms of disorganised speech and unresponsive behaviour. People battling with schizophrenia will develop symptoms that include:

  • Depression
  • Hearing voices or seeing something that isn't real
  • Social withdrawal
  • Poor personal hygiene
  • Lack of facial expression
  • Illogical and rapid shifts from one topic to the next
  • Speech repetition
  • Insomnia
  • Hostile or suspicious behaviour

During the early phase of the illness, people with paranoid schizophrenia will lack motivation, become emotionless and reclusive. Once they start isolating themselves from society, they neglect their appearance, become suspicious of others and respond negatively to criticism. A majority of people living with schizophrenia will experience delusions. These delusions arise from several false beliefs that consist of the following:

  • People are out to get them.
  • A sense of grandiosity that arises from the belief that they are superior figures or that they have unusual powers
  • Their actions are being manipulated by outside forces such as alien beings.
  • Their thoughts are being intercepted and controlled by the government.
  • Government officials or outside forces are monitoring their Google account or hard drive.

While people living with schizophrenia experience visual hallucinations, auditory hallucinations are most common. These voices referred to as “self-talk,” often appear critical and abusive. These sounds are believed to come from an outside force and are mistaken for people they know.

DIAGNOSING AND TREATING PSYCHOSIS

Dr Singh will formulate a diagnosis based on observation, interviews with family and friends gathering a full history, ruling out other chronic conditions.

Dr Singh will use medication, relapse prevention, social skills development and life skill training to treat schizophrenia.

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