Schizophreniform Disorder

Schizophreniform disorder is closely related to schizophrenia, the difference being the longevity of the symptoms. In schizophrenia, the symptoms must be present for over 6 months and continue on permanently. In schizophreniform disorder, the symptoms come and go, increase or decrease in intensity, and last for a period of time between one and six months.

Symptoms & signs of schizophreniform disorder

The symptoms of schizophreniform disorder are the same as those of schizophrenia. They include:

• Lack of emotion
• Hallucinations and/or delusions (psychotic episodes)
• Lack of social functioning and motivation
• Speech issues, including scattered speech or an inability to speak
• Catatonic (unresponsive) state
• Disorganized thoughts and behaviour

When is it time to get help?

If you or a loved one is in “psychosis” – a state where it’s difficult to tell what is real – then it is definitely time to seek help. People in this state may be more vulnerable to harm, from others or from themselves. If your friends or family members are expressing concern because you’re exhibiting symptoms of this disorder, you should probably trust them and reach out for support from a professional.

Schizophreniform disorder treatment methods

Schizophreniform disorder can be treated in several different ways:

• Acceptance and commitment therapy encourages clients to accept the difficulties and misfortunes of life. Clients learn coping techniques to not dwell on negative emotions by staying in the present.
• Behavioural therapy tends to view human beings and behaviour with the assumption that humans are a product of their sociocultural conditioning and environment, looking at the current problems and the factors influencing them and emphasizes behaviour changes more than the underlying unconscious processes.
• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)is an evidence-based approach to treatment that focuses on how people’s thoughts, emotions, and beliefs influence their behaviour and how they perceive themselves.
• Psychotherapy is a broad term that encompasses numerous styles of therapy and uses verbal or nonverbal communication with a client to help treat psychiatric problems, behavioral issues, personality disorders, and various other types of emotional distress. This form of personal counselling is based on an interpersonal relationship, as opposed to the alternative chemical or physical forms of therapy.
• Couples counselling Couples are always growing and changing and can face an increasing or evolving number of challenges in their relationship. Counselling can help if you’re feeling unhappy in your relationship, would like to overcome a specific issue or problematic pattern, or if you’re interested in improving your relationship.
• Insight can also work in consultation with a psychiatrist.

Mood stabilizers and antipsychotic medications are sometimes effective as well. The best methods of treatments can be determined through an assessment conducted by one of Insight Psychological’s trained therapists. Next, together with your therapist, you’ll explore the best treatment method for your individual circumstances.

What will I get out of treatment with Insight Psychological?

Although a schizophreniform disorder diagnosis can feel overwhelming, you will recover within six months. You can find ways to cope while you recover, and to deal with any residual effects moving forward, such as anxiety or depression. We’d be honoured to be with you on your journey. Our therapists are knowledgeable, trustworthy, and nonjudgmental. Call Insight Psychological today. We have offices located in several locations in Alberta.