Schizophrenia is a mental illness with symptoms that may include hallucinations, paranoia, delusions, mood difficulties and social inadequacies. It is a difficult, isolating disease that can have many long-term effects. The possibility of more debilitating effects increases with a decrease in support, intervention, financial resources and availability of medication.
Stability in Community
Many people with schizophrenia have difficulty remaining stable in a community setting and caring for themselves. They may end up homeless or chronically hospitalized due to their inability to remain safe. They may become more and more isolated and withdrawn, and thus have difficulty obtaining services that could help with stability.
Health Issues
Those people who struggle with schizophrenia often have more health issues than the average individual who does not have this illness. In addition, they are less likely to receive medical help due to lack of resources or ability to obtain the ones that are available.
Depression
It is not known whether it is situational or part of the disease itself, but people who have had schizophrenia for many years begin to struggle with depressive symptoms. In fact, between 20 and 50 percent of those with schizophrenia attempt suicide (due to the nature of the disease and lack of medical attention this number is difficult to pin down). About 13 percent of schizophrenia patients succeed in suicide.
Substance Abuse
Many of those who have this disease abuse substances. This becomes a competing illness and exacerbates the original one. The long- term effects are health issues, criminal records, and even more loss of support and resources.
Effects on Families
Long-term effects on family members of individuals with schizophrenia can be immense. Health issues due to stress and worry can occur. Anger, frustration, and despair at fighting for resources and fighting the disease can take a toll. Estrangement from the individual may be unavoidable, which then removes support from the ill one and can leave the family member feeling guilt and pain.
Medications
There are always medications that can alleviate symptoms and some work wonders for various individuals. However, it is important to realize that medications have side effects. Some of the earlier drugs could cause serious irreversible damage called tardive dyskinesia. This is a movement disorder that causes repetitive purposeless movements. Some other effects may be weight gain, dry mouth or excessive salivating.
Benefits
Though there are significant long-term effects of schizophrenia, there is much research and information that can help mitigate these. Case management, medication management, education and mentoring all have been shown to be beneficial. If you are a family member or loved one of someone with schizophrenia, don't give up hope. There are support groups, education and information that can help you feel less alone in this fight. For referrals, suggestions, support and hope, a good place to start is the National Alliance on Mentally Illness. See the Resources section for a link.
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