Schizophrenia Symptoms Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. Common symptoms are divided into three categories 1. Positive Symptoms excesses distortions of normal function • Hallucinations hearing voices, seeing things not real) • Delusions (false beliefs, e.g., persecution, grandiosity • Disorganized thinking and speech • Agitated or unpredictable behavior 2. Negative Symptoms loss or reduction of normal function • Lack of motivation avolition • Social withdrawal and isolation • Reduced emotional expression flat affect • Difficulty in daily functioning and self-care 3. Cognitive Symptoms • Poor concentration and memory problems • Difficulty in problem-solving and decision-making • Trouble understanding and processing information Treatment in Psychotherapy and Counselling While medication antipsychotics is the primary treatment for schizophrenia psychotherapy and counselling play a crucial supportive role 1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT • Helps challenge delusions and hallucinations • Teaches coping strategies to manage distress • Improves insight into illness 2. Supportive Counseling • Provides emotional support • Helps reduce isolation and build trust • Encourages adherence to medication 3. Family Therapy • Educates family members about schizophrenia • Reduces stress and improves communication • Helps prevent relapse 4. Social Skills Training • Improves communication and relationship skills • Builds confidence in handling daily situations • Encourages independent living 5. Psychoeducation • Teaches the patient and family about illness, triggers, and relapse signs • Improves long term management 6. Rehabilitation Occupational Therapy • Focuses on work skills routine and social reintegration • Builds independence and functionality Contact us Arunoday counselling clinic Psychologist Mental Health therapist Marital councellor