There are certain mental health conditions that seem to only get talked about in contexts like procedural dramas or spooky horror movies. It’s common for people to have heard of schizophrenia but not quite understand what it is, and the media’s portrayal of it often contributes to the stigma surrounding it. In reality, schizophrenia is a complex and often misunderstood disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. There are several different types of schizophrenia, each with its own unique symptoms and treatment approaches.

Columbia Associates offers schizophrenia treatment services in Maryland and Virginia that can help clients manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. Call 703.682.8208 today if you’re struggling with any of the following types of schizophrenia.

The Most Common Types of Schizophrenia

Paranoid Schizophrenia

This is the most well-known type of schizophrenia, and it’s portrayed in media as a disorder that causes individuals to hear voices or have delusions about being followed or watched. While these symptoms are common among those with paranoid schizophrenia, they’re not the only ones. People with this type of schizophrenia may also present signs of anxiety, anger, or aggression. Treatment for paranoid schizophrenia usually involves antipsychotic medications and therapy to help manage these symptoms.

Disorganized Schizophrenia

This type of schizophrenia is characterized by disorganized thinking, speech, and behaviors. Those with disorganized schizophrenia may struggle to maintain daily activities and appear to have scattered or inappropriate emotional responses. They may also have difficulty understanding and expressing emotions, making it challenging to build and maintain relationships. Treatment for disorganized schizophrenia often includes a combination of medications, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and social skills training.

Catatonic Schizophrenia

Catatonia is a condition in which individuals may remain immobile or adopt abnormal postures for extended periods. People with catatonic schizophrenia may enter trance-like states where they become unresponsive and remain motionless. This type of schizophrenia may also involve symptoms like echolalia (repeating others’ words) or echopraxia (mimicking others’ actions). Treatment for catatonic schizophrenia typically involves a combination of medications, electroconvulsive therapy, and physical therapy.

Residual Schizophrenia

Residual schizophrenia is characterized by a history of at least one episode of schizophrenia but with fewer and less severe symptoms present. People with this type of schizophrenia may have residual negative symptoms like social withdrawal or lack of motivation. While some people with residual schizophrenia can manage their symptoms without treatment, many benefit from continued therapy and medication management.

Undifferentiated Schizophrenia

This type of schizophrenia is characterized by symptoms that don’t fit neatly into one of the other types. People with undifferentiated schizophrenia may experience a combination of delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thoughts and behaviors. Treatment for this type of schizophrenia can vary depending on the severity and frequency of symptoms but usually includes antipsychotic medications and therapy.

Signs That Someone Needs Schizophrenia Treatment

Some of the most common signs that someone needs schizophrenia treatment include:

• Delusions or hallucinations – Believing in things that aren’t real or experiencing sensations that don’t exist can be distressing and interfere with daily functioning
• Difficulty managing emotions – Many people with schizophrenia struggle to understand and manage their emotions, leading to outbursts, anxiety, and aggression
• Disorganized thinking or speech – A hallmark of schizophrenia is disordered thoughts that may seem jumbled or nonsensical to others
• Social withdrawal – Many people with schizophrenia experience social withdrawal due to fear, paranoia, or difficulty understanding social cues

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should reach out for help from a mental health professional. Columbia Associates offers compassionate and evidence-based schizophrenia treatment that can help clients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Contact Columbia Associates Today for Schizophrenia Treatment

Schizophrenia is a complex disorder that requires individualized and holistic treatment. At Columbia Associates, our team of experienced therapists and psychiatric professionals work together to provide comprehensive care for clients with schizophrenia. Call 703.682.8208 to get started. For new clients, please click here to schedule an appointment, and for existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.