Symptoms of Schizophrenia and Times of Onset
The symptoms of schizophrenia vary in different cases, as do the ages that symptoms appear in different patients. The manner in which schizophrenia develops and manifests depends on the onset, severity, and duration of the symptoms, according to the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation.
People do not often develop schizophrenia during childhood, but symptoms can start to appear at young ages, and awareness of these symptoms in young patients has continued to increase as more research has been done.
Symptoms typically begin to surface between the ages of 16 and 30. Symptoms of schizophrenia can include excessive irritability, problems in school and with grades, trouble sleeping, sleeping too much, and changes in their friend groups. These symptoms can at first seem like typical behavior in teens and young adults but need to be monitored in case a larger issue is the cause of them.
Diagnosing Schizophrenia According to Symptoms
The diagnosis of schizophrenia comes once a patient has exhibited symptoms for six months, except for a few symptoms—hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized speech and behaviors—which should last for one month before a diagnosis is made. If a patient constantly hears a voice commenting about the patient’s thoughts and behavior, or if the patient experiences two or more voices communicating with each other, a schizophrenia diagnosis will likely be given immediately.
Symptom Development
While almost equal numbers of men and women experience schizophrenia, symptoms usually appear in men before they appear in women. Scientists are unsure of why this is, but males experiencing possible symptoms should take note.
Symptoms can either develop slowly over an extended period of time or they can come on suddenly. If you have not experienced any symptoms by the time you turn 45, you are unlikely to develop schizophrenia.
Keep in mind that even if you believe you might be experiencing symptoms of schizophrenia or another psychotic disorder, only a psychiatrist or psychologist can diagnose you.
Learning More About Schizophrenia
To learn more about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of schizophrenia, reach out to us. We will gladly come alongside you and help you learn more about schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders and provide help for you or a loved one who might be suffering. You are not alone.