1. Schizophrenia

2. What Is Schizophrenia? 4 Schizophrenia is a medical illness 4 it affects approximately one in every 100 people 4 the onset of this illness is usually between the ages of 16 and 25

3. 4 It is characterized by: 4 delusions 4 hallucinations 4 disturbances in thinking and communicating 4 deteriorating social functioning

4. What is the Cause of Schizophrenia? 4 The cause of schizophrenia is unknown 4 areas of interest in the study of the cause are: biochemistry; cerebral blood flow; molecular biology; genetic pre disposition; stress; drug abuse; and nutritional theories

5. Changes in a Person with Schizophrenia. 4 may show a loss or lack of emotion 4 lose motivation 4 lose interest in previously enjoyed activities 4 emotions may be inappropriate

6. 4 thought’s become disordered 4 thoughts may be slowed down, or speeded up to the point they have trouble focusing on them

7. 4 may become confused 4 have trouble making decisions 4 think in a delusional manner 4 may lose the sense that they are real, or that they have a body.

8. How is Schizophrenia Treated? 4 Antipsychotic medications 4 work with the person and his/her family 4 hospitalization 4 social skills training 4 residential living 4 recreational and vocational training