Dr. Velligan Explains: Schizophrenia
What is Schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a behavioral health condition effecting close to 5 million people in the U.S. People with this condition often hear noises or voices where there is no one around. They may also see, hear, smell, or feel things where there is nothing around to explain it. For example, someone may hear a voice telling them to do things or commenting on their behavior.People who have schizophrenia often believe things that are not supported by facts. For example, someone may believe they are being followed by the CIA when they have done nothing wrong and are not involved in anything that would interest the CIA.
Sometimes individuals with schizophrenia have speech that is hard to follow or understand. Often individuals with this condition have some difficulties in paying attention, remembering, and planning. Other symptoms of schizophrenia include a lack of motivation so that everything appears as if it will require too much effort to do, social isolation in which the person does not want to spend time with others, and a dampening of emotion.
We encourage anyone struggling with this condition in themselves or a family member to seek out information, and to get help from treatment professionals. While this condition is not curable, individuals with schizophrenia can lead happy productive lives with the right combinations of a stable living environment, medications and psychosocial treatments.
About Dr. Dawn Velligan
Dr. Velligan is a, licensed clinical psychologist, an internationally renowned expert in serious mental illness and the Chief Advisor for Amber Lantern communities. She has worked for decades developing and testing new therapeutic approaches for serious mental illnesses in her role as the Director of the Division of Community Recovery, Research, and Training at The University of Texas Health Science Center’s Department of Psychiatry.
How Amber Lantern Can Help
If you or a loved one are living with schizophrenia Amber Lantern may be able to help. Our San Antonio, TX based residential communities offer programs that are designed to help people with serious mental illnesses live independent and fulfilling lives. If you are interested in learning more about Amber Lantern please contact us
