How to Diagnose Schizophrenia

Diagnosing schizophrenia is quite difficult as its symptoms may resemble those of other mental disorders, e.g., bipolar disorder or severe depression. Schizophrenia diagnosis is especially difficult in the case of people who feel they are perfectly normal and refuse the need for medical diagnosis.

Schizophrenia is diagnosed considering the patient’s symptoms, his/her cognitive, emotional, and behavioral patterns, and social functioning. Initially, the symptoms may not be noticeable as schizophrenia usually develops over a long period of time – from many months to years.

Schizophrenia has a variety of symptoms. These are categorized as follows:

Positive symptoms:

• Delusions
• Hallucinations
• Disorganized speech
• Catatonic behavior

Negative symptoms:

• Flat effect
• Lack of motivation
• Lack of or reduced speech

Cognitive symptoms:

• Memory problems
• Difficulty in maintaining attention
• Difficulty in planning activities
• Lack of knowledge about their own condition

When making a diagnosis, the doctor will examine both positive and negative symptoms.

For more information on schizophrenia, see below:

Schizophrenia: Top 5 Symptoms

Schizophrenia: How Your Diet Plays a Role

Schizophrenia: Latest Medical Breakthroughs

Schizophrenia: Top 5 Drugs that Work

Schizophrenia: Top Natural Supplements for Treatment