What is schizophreniform disorder?

Schizophreniform disorder is a form of psychotic illness with symptoms almost as severe as schizophrenia, except the period lasts for less than 6 months.

It is a kind of "psychosis," as in schizophrenia, in which a person cannot differentiate between real and imagined experiences. People with this disorder would have difficulty thinking, acting, expressing emotions, and relating to others.

If symptoms persist for more than 6 months, doctors classify the individual as suffering from schizophrenia rather than schizophreniform disorder.

What are the symptoms of schizophreniform disorder?

The symptoms of schizophreniform disorder are similar to schizophrenia. The symptoms include:

• Delusions: These are powerful false beliefs that do not depend upon reality. You resist any evidence showing them as inaccurate.
• Hallucinations: False impressions of things or events by way of your senses, sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste are called hallucinations.
• Poorly constructed speech: your speech is not well structured. You could also use sentences you will find challenging to explain. You use words that do not exist. In such a scenario, your typical speech can vary significantly.
• Poor or abnormal movements: You would not move as people around you thought you should. For example, you may turn so much for no apparent reason or remain relatively immobile (catatonia).

We refer to additional schizophreniform illness symptoms as "negative symptoms." They're a decrease or loss in your ability to do the things that are expected to be done, such as:

• Loss of interest or pleasure in life (anhedonia).
• Withdrawal from family, friends and social activities.

If you notice these symptoms or they are present in someone you know, contact your healthcare provider or a mental health professional immediately.

What are the complications of schizophreniform disorder?

The complications of schizophreniform disorder include:

• The symptoms of schizophreniform disorder can severely affect your daily life. You will have problems at school or work, in relationships, and taking care of yourself. You may lose jobs and relationships.
• People with psychotic disorders, such as schizophreniform disorder and schizophrenia, are at a higher risk for substance use and substance use disorder. You may find that you are more likely to use alcohol or other drugs to help manage your symptoms ("self-medication"). If this applies to you, get assistance from a medical practitioner or mental health specialist right now.
• Psychotic individuals are also more likely to have suicidal thoughts or die by suicide.

What causes schizophreniform disorder?

Researchers do not exactly know what causes schizophreniform disorder. They believe it to be a complex condition whose causes may involve several factors:

• Genetics: Schizophreniform disorder is often found in biological families. If one of your biological parents has this disorder, your risk is increased. However, this does not mean you will have the disorder.
•  Brain chemistry: Neurotransmitters are specific chemical messengers that may be out of balance in the brains of people with schizophrenia or schizophreniform disease. When these chemicals get out of balance, messages cannot transmit properly, causing symptoms.
• Environmental factors: There is evidence that maybe some factors in the environment may precipitate schizophreniform disorder in people who have predisposed tendencies to develop such a disorder, like a high-stress event (trauma).

How is schizophreniform disorder diagnosed?

If one is experiencing the symptoms, a doctor may draw on several tests, such as brain imaging-including MRI scans and blood tests, to rule out a non-psychiatric medical problem.

Suppose the doctor does not find a physical cause for the symptoms. In that case, he may refer the patient to a psychiatrist or, psychologist or mental health professionals who have the training and skills in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses. They use interview and assessment tools designed primarily to determine whether a person has a psychotic disorder. The symptoms must have existed for less than 6 months to qualify for the diagnosis of schizophreniform disorder.

How is schizophreniform disorder treated?

Both medication and psychotherapy (a form of counselling) are applied. In cases of very severe symptoms or when patients are in danger of hurting themselves or others, they may need to be hospitalized to control their condition.

• Medications: The first-line medications that doctors administer to treat the psychotic symptoms of schizophreniform disorder are antipsychotic drugs.
• Psychotherapy: This aims at making the person aware and understand the condition and its treatment, setting goals, and handling daily problems as they occur with the illness. It may also help handle distress that comes with symptoms. Family therapy: Families can then better cope with a loved one suffering from schizophreniform disorder.

Can schizophreniform disorder be prevented?

There is no known prevention or way to reduce the risk for schizophreniform disorder. Still, early diagnosis and intervention can minimize disruption in the life of the sufferer.

What is the prognosis (outlook) for people with schizophreniform disorder? 

About 33% of people suffering from schizophreniform disorder will recover within six months. In case your symptoms persist after six months, you likely suffer from schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, both being life-long disorders. In such a scenario, you'll need to continue treatment for the proper management of the condition.

How can I take care of myself?

You may care for your schizophreniform disorder by doing the following to help manage your symptoms:

• Take the medicines according to prescription: It is one of the most significant things you can do and take. If you have concerns or problems with side effects, it is important to talk with your provider to see if there is a better fit.
• Regular visits to your healthcare provider: Your health care provider(s) will establish a routine for you to see them. These are critical appointments that help with management of the condition.
• Don't ignore or avoid symptoms: The chances of responding to treatment and achieving an excellent outcome increase when conditions are identified early, and appropriate medical care is instituted.
• Avoid alcohol and substance use: Alcohol and substance use or abuse can worsen symptoms of schizophreniform disorder and contribute to other problems.
• Consider seeking support: You may consider joining a support group for schizophreniform disorder or other psychotic disorders. You may feel you are not alone by working with a group, and you might be able to relate with others going through what you are.

When am I visiting my doctor?

See your doctor right away if you notice any of these symptoms. Listen to the concerns of your family members about your behavior if you have a history of psychosis or have a family history of it.

If you have been diagnosed with this disorder, it is really important for you to keep in touch with your doctor or mental health professional regularly.

What questions do I need to ask my healthcare provider about schizophreniform disorder?

• Do I have a disorder specifically called "schizophreniform" or simply "schizophrenia"?
• How long do you expect my symptoms to last?
• What kind of specialist would I actually need to visit?
• Can I go to work/school?
• Will I need to be hospitalized?
• What medications will you recommend?

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