While many people know the general symptoms of schizophrenia, noticing them in yourself can be challenging. It is crucial to remember that schizophrenia does not occur overnight but rather has symptoms that develop over months or years. You may be in denial regarding your symptoms, but recognizing them as fact can aid in getting you the help needed for healing. Here is how to identify schizophrenia symptoms in yourself.
Learn the Risk Factors
If you suspect that you are displaying schizophrenia symptoms, learning the risk factors can help you better understand if they are a real cause for concern. While not everyone displays these risk factors, some individuals exhibit one or more that can explain a possible schizophrenia diagnosis. Common risk factors of schizophrenia include:
- Taking hallucinogens: using LSD, PCP, or psilocybin (mushrooms) can increase your vulnerability to developing schizophrenia.
- Genetics: having a relative that has schizophrenia can increase your risk of developing it yourself.
- Life Stressors: experiencing life stressors such as homelessness, poverty, trauma, isolation, or a constant fight for survival can increase the risk of schizophrenia.
Noticing Changes in Early Adult Life
Schizophrenia is typically diagnosed after the age of 20 due to individuals experiencing more stressful situations that can magnify symptoms. For example, you may be struggling to live with a roommate, balance your finances, or keep a job. Keeping symptoms at bay while you still live at your parents’ house as a minor is much easier than when you expose yourself to the challenges of adult life. Noticing these changes can help you identify schizophrenia symptoms.
Keep a List of Symptoms in Mind
Knowing the common symptoms of schizophrenia is the best way to identify them in yourself. You may want to deny experiencing them at first, but it could be time to seek treatment if they are persistent. Your mental and physical health should always be your priority, so don’t be afraid to take action when struggling.
Common schizophrenia symptoms include:
- Hallucinations or delusions
- Lack of motivation
- Blunted feelings
- Abnormal/inappropriate thoughts or emotions
- Inability to maintain eye contact
- Decreased conversation
- Avoiding social situations
Schizophrenia is a severe mental health condition that requires lifelong treatment for those affected. For many, it can be a frightening thought to think that you have schizophrenia. However, denying the facts will only cause you more harm. Learning how to identify schizophrenia symptoms in yourself can save you from worsening symptoms or potential addiction. Alta Loma Transformational Services treats men struggling with addiction and various mental health disorders. Our programs treat co-occurring conditions, including schizophrenia. You are sure to find healing at our Georgetown, TX facility. Call us today at (866) 457-3843.
