Photo by Mario Heller
The subtle signs of schizophrenia often happen when our lives transition from adolescence to adulthood, revealing some unexpected changes in our brains.
A person's 20s are usually when the mental health illness first manifests itself. Men who are AMABs (Assigned Male At Birth) are more likely to have schizophrenia sooner in life, starting in their late teens or early 20s. Readers of Greg Hitchcock's book Schizophrenia in the Army are shown the challenges of this mental illness as Greg navigates through his life despite it.
We're here to help create an understanding of schizophrenia. Since this is a book about overcoming challenges, readers can expect some lessons from someone's tale of struggle and triumph. Now, without further ado, let's take a look at schizophrenia's subtle signs.
Prodromal Schizophrenia: The Subtle Warning Signs
Schizophrenia alters your thoughts, actions, and interpersonal relationships. In the early stages of the condition, known as the prodrome, symptoms might be mild and readily mistaken for other activities or changes in one's life. Typical initial symptoms consist of:
• A General Lack of Focus
As thoughts stray further from reality, it can become easier to overlook jobs, domestic duties, and schooling. People may come up with ridiculous justifications for skipping assignments or missing appointments. Motivation gradually vanishes as they seem to lose interest and focus on things.
• A Change of Emotions Is Noticeable
As someone moves into the initial phases of schizophrenia, mood swings may become more common. They could appear more agitated or agitated. Fears of the outside world could intensify. A suspicion could develop into paranoia.
• Disconnecting From Others Is More Pronounced
Spending time with loved ones can abruptly decrease. Calls come to an end. Dialogue is eschewed. These are just some of the examples of what "disconnecting" could look like for someone with Prodromal Schizophrenia.
Loved ones should be mindful of this because this is one of the most subtle signs of schizophrenia. In Greg Hitchcock's book about overcoming challenges, he mentions the signs a couple of times to give the readers a better look at the precedent before the storm.
After these warning signs, what comes next are the early signs of schizophrenia.
Early Signs of Schizophrenia and Active Markers of the Illness
Schizophrenia's initial symptoms could appear for a few weeks or several years. Increasingly pronounced symptoms characterize the subsequent "active" phase of the mental disorder. These symptoms can include:
• "Negative manifestations" include stiff body language, a flat manner of speaking, and lack of eye contact.
• Experiencing voices or hallucinations.
• Irrational thoughts.
• Speak incoherently.
• Atypical bodily motions ranging from excessive activity to catatonic behavior.
Most of Us Would Not Accept or Deny Schizophrenia's Presence
Many will ignore or rationalize away early indications of schizophrenia, even as the condition progresses. When you observe a loved one struggling, denial may become a coping strategy.
A college may frequently be the initial institution to refer a young adult for evaluation due to unpredictable behavior or an overdose of drugs. It's normal to find it difficult to comprehend symptoms of schizophrenia or to ignore them until they worsen and occasionally result in aggressive conduct. However, issues won't go away on their own, especially if they're driven by alcohol or drugs.
When Should Someone Seek Treatment for Schizophrenia?
The sooner the signs of schizophrenia are identified and treated, the better. Medical professionals use observations and questions to make a diagnosis of the ailment.
For the person with schizophrenia and everyone close to them, receiving a diagnosis can change everything. It's a step toward recovery and living a complete life. Schizophrenia patients can complete their education, find employment, get married, and have children.
There currently is no known cure for schizophrenia. However, a mix of medicine, therapeutic support, and education for the patient and loved ones can often be used to manage the illness.
Witness the Subtle Signs of Schizophrenia From Anecdote
Schizophrenia is scary, confusing, and alarming. But those who have it don't have to suffer. If we can notice the early signs, we can prepare a better life for those with schizophrenia or ourselves if we have it.
We highly suggest grabbing a copy of Greg Hitchcock's Schizophrenia in the Army and reading a book about overcoming challenges!