This article goes over the conditions that fall under the schizophrenia spectrum and their symptoms.
It also discusses the diagnosis and management of these conditions.
Illustration by Shideh Ghandeharizadeh for Verywell Health
What Is Schizophrenia?
Illustration by Shideh Ghandeharizadeh for Verywell Health
Thesymptoms of schizophreniafall into three main categories.
Schizophreniform disorder can develop into schizophrenia if the symptoms reach the six-month mark.
Depressive or manic episode symptoms are present over half of the duration of the condition.
Functional impairment is due to the delusion only and not experienced outside of it.
Another psychotic episode in the future is possible.
Associated Conditions
Schizophrenia is just one of several conditions that fall under the spectrum of psychotic disorders.
Some of these conditions commonly occur alongside schizophrenia and/or share symptoms that can make diagnosis more difficult.
Diagnosis
The DSM-5 is a reference book published by the American Psychiatric Association.
A diagnosis of schizophrenia is typically made after the first episode of psychosis.
Schizophrenia can also overlap with other mental health conditions that need to be considered during a diagnosis.
Sometimes symptoms can be mild.
It is common for people with one mental illness to have other mental illnesses at the same time.
This is also true of schizophrenia.
When the DSM-5 was published, the subtypes were removed as part of the officialdiagnosis of schizophrenia.
However, some mental health professionals still use them to gain nuanced understanding of how schizophrenia can present.
In addition toformal treatmentinvolving medication and therapies, there are ways to make living with schizophrenia more manageable.
Schizophrenia spectrum disorders can be managed with medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and a strong support system.
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