Schizophrenia is a group of severe brain disorders in which people interpret reality abnormally. Schizophrenia may result in some combination of hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking and behavior. Contrary to some popular belief, schizophrenia isn't split personality or multiple personality. The word "schizophrenia" refers to a disruption of the usual balance of emotions and thinking.

Schizophrenia is a chronic condition, requiring lifelong treatment even when symptoms have subsided. Treatment with medications and psychosocial therapy can help manage the condition. During crisis periods or times of severe symptoms, hospitalization may be necessary to ensure safety, proper nutrition, adequate sleep and basic hygiene. A psychiatrist experienced in treating schizophrenia usually guides treatment, supported by psychologists, social workers and psychiatric nurses and possibly a case manager to coordinate care.

Medications are the cornerstone of schizophrenia treatment. But because medications for schizophrenia can cause serious side effects, people with schizophrenia may be reluctant to take them. Antipsychotic medications are the most commonly prescribed to treat schizophrenia. A person's willingness to cooperate with treatment may affect medication choice. For example, someone who is uncooperative may need to be given injections instead of taking a pill, and someone who is agitated may need to be calmed initially with a benzodiazepine such as lorazepam (Ativan), which may be combined with an antipsychotic

Atypical antipsychotics are newer medications are generally preferred because they pose a lower risk of debilitating side effects than do conventional medications. Side effects of atypical antipsychotic medications include weight gain, diabetes and high blood cholesterol

Conventional, or typical, antipsychotics have frequent and potentially significant neurological side effects, including the possibility of developing a movement disorder that may or may not be reversible. These typical antipsychotics are often cheaper than newer counterparts, especially the generic versions, which can be an important consideration when long-term treatment is necessary.

It can take several weeks after first starting a medication to notice an improvement in symptoms. In general, the goal of treatment with antipsychotic medications is to effectively control signs and symptoms at the lowest possible dosage. The psychiatrist may try different medications, different dosages or combinations over time to achieve the desired result. Other medications also may be helpful, such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications.

Although medications are the cornerstone of schizophrenia treatment, once psychosis recedes, psychosocial treatments also are important. Many communities have programs to help people with schizophrenia with jobs, housing, self-help groups and crisis situations. Psychosocial therapies may include:

· Social skills training: This focuses on improving communication and social interactions

· Family therapy: This provides support and education to families dealing with schizophrenia

· Vocational rehabilitation and supported employment: This focuses on helping people with schizophrenia find and keep jobs

· Individual therapy: Learning to cope with stress and identify early warning signs of relapse can help people with schizophrenia manage their illness