Disorganized schizophrenia is a form of schizophrenia that is exemplified by an affected individual’s inability to engage in logical, coherent behaviors and thoughts. It is one of the more severe kinds of schizophrenia because the affected person cannot complete routine activities, such as preparing a meal or bathing. In addition, because thoughts are illogical, other people often have difficulty understanding what the affected individual is attempting to communicate.
There are several symptoms associated with disorganized schizophrenia. Thoughts are often illogical and incoherent, and one of the main ways to see the disorganization is through the affected person’s speech. The individual may jump from topic to topic and the speech may appear to be meaningless babble to others. The disorganization is also seen through the person’s writing, as it usually is a jumble of words, letters, and symbols.
People who have a severe form of disorganized schizophrenia may not be able to function normally. For example, the person may not be able to dress herself, drive a car, make a meal, or bathe. The individual may appear dirty, disheveled, and dress inappropriately. In addition, she may become easily agitated. The person may have a blank expression on her face and shy away from eye contact. Generally, emotions, such as extreme laughter, that are expressed by the affected individual may be considered inappropriate by other people.
Lesser signs of disorganized schizophrenia include delusions and hallucinations. The person may grimace or become isolated. In addition, many affected individuals appear clumsy and maintain unusual physical postures.
Although the actual cause of disorganized schizophrenia is unknown, many scientists believe it may be caused by a dysfunction in the brain. Scientists also have determined some external factors that may increase the likelihood of developing the disease. Specifically, a person with a family history of the disease has an increased risk of developing it. In addition, viral exposure and malnutrition during pregnancy may raise the risk for the baby. Also, an older birth father and drug use may raise the chances that the disease will occur.
There are several ways to treat disorganized schizophrenia. Among the main options for treatment are certain medications, psychotherapy, and electroconvulsive therapy. Medications may include antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety drugs. With all treatments, it is important the affected individual work closely with her team of doctors. In addition, it is important that she refrain from drugs, alcohol, and other medications, unless they are prescribed by her doctors. Although there is no way to prevent the disease at this time, by seeing a team of physicians, psychiatrists, and therapists on a regular basis, the condition can often be managed.
