Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a complex mental health condition that affects thinking, perception, and behavior. At NuMind Psychiatry in Seattle and Kennewick, Washington, Jay Rivas, DNP, PMHNP-BC, and his colleagues provide comprehensive care for individuals living with schizophrenia. Through personalized treatment plans and ongoing support, they help patients manage symptoms and improve daily functioning. Schedule an appointment with NuMind Psychiatry by phone or request one online today.

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a serious mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and acts. It can cause symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and difficulty functioning in everyday life.

At NuMind Psychiatry, Dr. Rivas and his colleagues offer expert care and support to help patients manage schizophrenia and improve their quality of life.

What are the symptoms of schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia symptoms usually fit into three categories:

Positive symptoms

Positive symptoms include hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there), delusions (strong false beliefs), and disorganized speech or behavior.

Negative symptoms

Negative symptoms involve a loss of abilities, such as a lack of motivation, reduced emotional expression, and withdrawal from social activities.

Cognitive symptoms

Cognitive symptoms affect memory, concentration, and decision-making.

Schizophrenia symptoms vary in severity and may come and go. NuMind Psychiatry helps patients and families recognize these signs and offers strategies to manage them effectively.

What causes schizophrenia?

The exact cause isn’t clear, but schizophrenia likely results from a combination of factors. These include the following:

• Genetics
• Dopamine and glutamate chemical imbalances in the brain
• Brain structure differences
• Environmental stressors

It’s important to remember that schizophrenia is a medical condition, not a result of poor parenting or personal failure.

How is schizophrenia diagnosed?

Dr. Rivas and his colleagues evaluate someone with schizophrenia by performing a thorough diagnostic assessment. They review a patient’s history, symptoms, and behavior patterns and also rule out other medical or mental health conditions to ensure an accurate diagnosis.

Early schizophrenia detection and treatment can make a big difference in long-term outcomes.

Is schizophrenia treatable?

While schizophrenia is a chronic condition, many people can manage their symptoms with proper treatment. Options include the following:

Medication

Antipsychotic medications help reduce hallucinations, delusions, and other symptoms.

Therapy

Psychotherapy helps patients develop coping skills, manage stress, and enhance their communication.

Support services

Education, family support, and help with work or daily living also play a vital role in supporting people with schizophrenia.

Dr. Rivas and his colleagues develop personalized treatment plans that support each patient’s unique needs and goals. With the right treatment and support, many individuals with schizophrenia lead meaningful, independent lives.

NuMind Psychiatry is committed to helping patients gain control over their schizophrenia symptoms and build a future filled with hope, stability, and purpose. Call the office to request a schizophrenia evaluation or book an appointment online today.