Of the different types of schizophrenia that exist today, paranoid schizophrenia is the most common. Doctors today refer to paranoid schizophrenia as “schizophrenia with paranoia.” Types of schizophrenia are classified based upon the most prominent symptom that a patient displays at the time of diagnosis.
The two main symptoms of schizophrenia with paranoia are:
- Severe delusions
- Hallucinations, primarily auditory hallucinations (i.e., hearing voices)
These false perceptions can lead a patient to believe that he is being watched, followed or persecuted, leading him to become distressed and anxious. This type of behavior is the basis for the diagnosis of schizophrenia with paranoia.
In addition to these delusions and hallucinations, schizophrenia with paranoia is classified by its lack of other symptoms often found in schizophrenic patients. Symptoms that seem to be less detectable in schizophrenia with paranoia patients include:
- Disorganized speech and behavior
- Lack of emotional response or inappropriate emotional response
How Will I Know if My Loved One Has Paranoid Schizophrenia?
The symptoms of schizophrenia with paranoia must be apparent for a minimum of at least six months before a diagnosis is made to avoid misdiagnosing schizophrenia as a different type of mental disorder.
As with any form of schizophrenia, there is no known cure for the disorder, but treatments are available that have been proven to allow paranoid schizophrenic patients to live full and rewarding lives.
Treatment options for schizophrenia with paranoia include:
- Antipsychotic drugs
- Psychotherapy
- Vocational skills training
- Electroconvulsive therapy
The earlier schizophrenia with paranoia is diagnosed, the better chance the patient has of experiencing success in treatment.
If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms of a mental disorder, don’t wait to get help. Allow us to come alongside you in your fight for control of your mental health.