Concept map
Schizophrenia is a complex mental illness that affects a person’s thoughts, feelings, and behavior. It is believed to be caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and glutamate, as well as changes in gene expression and the structure of neurons in the brain. Risk factors for schizophrenia include drug use, environmental toxins, family history of schizophrenia, and hormone imbalances. Symptoms of schizophrenia include hallucinations, delusions, disorganized speech, impaired thinking, and cognitive deficits. Treatment for schizophrenia includes medications, psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and family intervention. Complications of schizophrenia include social isolation, difficulty functioning in everyday life, increased risk of suicide, cognitive difficulties, motor skill impairments, difficulty managing emotions, depression and anxiety, substance abuse, financial problems, and homelessness.
The concept map highlights the various factors that contribute to the development of schizophrenia and the impact it has on a person’s life. It also highlights the different treatment options available and the potential complications that can arise as a result of the illness. It is important to note that while schizophrenia can be a debilitating illness, with the right care and support, patients can lead happy and purposeful lives.
The concept map also references several studies that have been conducted on schizophrenia, including research on the role of neurotransmitters, the risk of mortality and complications in patients with schizophrenia and diabetes, and the use of polypharmacy in treatment. These studies provide a deeper understanding of the illness and the potential treatment options available. Overall, the concept map provides a comprehensive overview of schizophrenia and its impact on individuals and society.
References
Baandrup, L. (2020). Polypharmacy in schizophrenia. Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, 126(3), 183–192. https://doi.org/10.1111/bcpt.13384
Bansal, V., & Chatterjee, I. (2021). Role of neurotransmitters in schizophrenia: a comprehensive study. Kuwait Journal of Science, 48(2). https://doi.org/10.48129/kjs.v48i2.9264
Chan, J. K. N., Wong, C. S. M., Or, P. C. F., Chen, E. Y. H., & Chang, W. C. (2021). Risk of mortality and complications in patients with schizophrenia and diabetes mellitus: population-based cohort study. The British Journal of Psychiatry, 219(1), 375–382. https://doi.org/10.1192/bjp.2020.248
McCutcheon, R. A., Krystal, J. H., & Howes, O. D. (2020). Dopamine and glutamate in schizophrenia: biology, symptoms, and treatment. World Psychiatry, 19(1), 15–33. https://doi.org/10.1002/wps.20693
