The Outlook for Schizophrenia

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Though schizophrenia is regarded as a more severe type of mental illness, those suffering from its effects have a reason to feel hopeful. The outlook for people living with schizophrenia has improved dramatically over the past 25 years. In fact, the term “schizophrenia” has only been around just over a century. Science and advocacy have come a long way and have made it possible to better understand and treat the symptoms of schizophrenia.

Prior to conventional psychiatric wisdom, people used terms like ‘madness’ and attributed all mentally crippling conditions to divine punishment or demonic possession. In the early twentieth century, psychiatrists tried many misguided and often extreme treatments in attempt to control disturbed behavior. The paradigm has shifted and mental health professionals, backed by quality studies and groundbreaking discoveries, are now much more informed and suited to not only alleviate symptoms but also more effectively treat those suffering from schizophrenia.

Long-term studies following people with schizophrenia, from first episode to old age; have revealed a wide array of possible outcomes. Certain factors, such as pre-illness history of normal social adjustment, are associated with better outcomes. Families and strong support systems also play a key role. The bottom line is that it’s completely possible for people with schizophrenia to go on to lead perfectly normal and independent lives. Although the complexity of the disorder has left many major questions unanswered, quality treatment, advocacy and understanding are only continuing to improve.

The Villa Orlando and Pasadena Villa’s Smoky Mountain Lodge are adult intensive psychiatric residential treatment centers for clients with serious mental illnesses. We also provide other individualized therapy programs, step-down residential programs, and less intensive mental health services, such as Community Residential Homes, Supportive Housing, Day Treatment Programs and Life Skills training. Pasadena Villa’s Outpatient Center in Raleigh, North Carolina offers partial hospitalization (PHP) and an intensive outpatient program (PHP). If you or someone you know may need mental health services, please complete our contact form or call us at 877-845-5235 for more information.

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Health.howstuffworks.com