By Vicki Lebsack

Schizophrenia, a biologically based brain disorder that causes disruptive and often debilitating symptoms, has been with us throughout history. But, for the first time, real breakthroughs in research and treatment are making a difference in the lives of people with the disorder, according to Sam McCord, program director for Senior Bridges, Northern Nevada Medical Center's behavioral health treatment program for older adults.

"For so long, the disorder has been misunderstood," said McCord, "resulting in discrimination, marginalization and isolation for many sufferers."

Demystifying schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a disease of the brain that changes how one perceives the world. It occurs in about one percent of the population. People with the disorder often see and hear things that aren't there. They may suffer from delusions or thoughts not based in reality and may commonly exhibit severe cognitive and social deficits. Combined, these symptoms can wreak havoc on the lives of sufferers and their families. Not everyone with the disorder exhibits the same symptoms, nor do all suffer symptoms to the same degree.

Causes of schizophrenia
Researchers believe schizophrenia is caused by a combination of hereditary and environmental factors. Prevalence data show that it occurs in 10 percent of the people with a first-degree (parent or sibling) relative with the disorder, and also more frequently in people with seconddegree (aunts, uncles, cousins or grandparents) relatives who have it. People with an identical twin with schizophrenia are at highest risk at 40 to 65 percent.

Environmental factors thought to play a role in the development of the disease include viruses, prenatal malnutrition, problems during birth and stressful environments.

People who develop the disease show slight differences in brain physiology and imbalances in the neurotransmitters, or chemical messengers, in the brain, which is the most promising area in the development of medications.

Many antipsychotic medications work on the balance and reactions of neurotransmitters, easing the hallucinations and delusions otherwise known as positive symptoms. However, negative symptoms, or symptoms that create deficits in cognitive and motivational functions, continue to affect a person's overall functioning.

Managing symptoms
"It's important to note that there is currently no cure for schizophrenia," cautioned McCord. "In order to manage symptoms for the long term, patients must continue to take medication to control the positive symptoms, engage in supportive psychosocial therapy to manage their negative symptoms and to cope with side effects from the medications."

Suicide rates are higher among people with schizophrenia than the general population. McCord noted that if someone with schizophrenia talks about committing suicide, professional help should be sought immediately.

Even though schizophrenia is chronic and often debilitating, the future is looking brighter for those with the disorder. Strides continue to be made in the areas of medication and psychosocial supports.

Vicki Lebsack

Stigma, however, continues to be one of the more devastating side effects of the disease. "If more people could understand the disorder and respond with understanding and compassion," McCord said, "people with schizophrenia would fare better all around."

Vicki Lebsack is community relations coordinator for Senior Bridges, which offers individualized, intensive treatment for adults 55 and better who are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress or other emotional difficulties. Senior Bridges is located at Northern Nevada Medical Center. For more information about schizophrenia or Senior Bridges, please call 356-4071.

Northern Nevada Medical Center 2375 E. Prater Way, Sparks, NV 89434 775-331-7000