Roy, a 21-year old boy, was experiencing social withdrawal on account of delusions and paranoia. after being admitted in an institution, it was observed that he was exhibiting some movement and behavioral abnormalities. He was seen walking backwards and he had a distinctive facial expression. The patient was ultimately diagnosed as having catatonic schizophrenia. Catatonic schizophrenia is a subtype of schizophrenia as mentioned in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, version 4 (DSM-IV-TR).
So what exactly is catatonic schizophrenia? It is a combination of catatonia and schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is basically a mental illness where there is an unusual or incorrect perception of reality. Catatonic schizophrenia occurs when catatonia, a psychic and motor disturbance syndrome is associated with psychiatric conditions, like schizophrenia. It has not yet been classified as a different disease. according to the DSM-IV-TR, if a person has delusions and hallucinations coupled with disorganized speech, and exhibits incoherent social behavior regularly, the person is diagnosed as having catatonic schizophrenia.
Symptoms of Catatonic SchizophreniaPatients suffering from catatonic schizophrenia either experience an extreme loss of motor skills or they exhibit hyper motor activity. Resistance to movement is observed in such patients. Symptoms also involve repetition of nonsensical phrases and imitating another person.
A few other symptoms of catatonic schizophrenia are neglect of personal hygiene, lack of emotions, angry outbursts, trouble functioning at school or work, social isolation and clumsy, uncoordinated movements. this also includes a posture called waxy flexibility, which means that a person having catatonic schizophrenia when placed by others in a specific position, maintains that posture for a long time.
A particular condition is experienced by these patients, which is called the catatonic excitement. It pertains to persistent useless agitation. The individuals in this state become hyperactive, although the activity does not yield anything constructive.
Treatment of Catatonic SchizophreniaThe first step in the treatment of this condition is the patient’s acceptance that he or she is afflicted by the mental disorder. once this is accomplished, then, it is possible that the medication will work. Because if the individual is rigid and is not motivated and willing to get better, the medications would be in vain.
There are various treatment options available for catatonic schizophrenia. They are mentioned below.
MedicationMedication is the pillar of catatonic schizophrenia treatment. Benzodiazepines are the most common medicines for the treatment of catatonic schizophrenia. Also called anti-anxiety medications, these are basically sedatives. this medication may be injected in a vein, they act fast and reduce the catatonic symptoms.
Barbiturates is another option, but not as common as Benzodiazepines. They are also sedatives and could form a habit for the person consuming them for long period of time. this medicine too help in reducing the symptoms of catatonic schizophrenia.
If an individual suffers from depression along with catatonic schizophrenia, then, anti-depressants is an alternative. Mood stabilizing medication can also be used for controlling hostility and aggression.
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)Electroconvulsive therapy is a procedure in which electric currents are passed through a patient’s brain, inducing a brief seizure. It apparently causes changes in brain chemistry. these can reduce symptoms of catatonic schizophrenia.
HospitalizationHospitalization is mandatory if the individual is suffering from severe bouts of catatonic schizophrenia. this way, the hygiene and nutrition of the patient will be taken care of.
PsychotherapyPsychotherapy involves individual therapy and social therapy. in the individual therapy, the therapist helps the patient cope with the disorder on his own. It improves the communication and social skills of the individual. Family therapy is all about making the family members of the patient understand the disorder. this helps the family members cope with the patient’s problem.
Vocational Skills TrainingThe recovery of a patient suffering from catatonic schizophrenia can be quickened by administering vocational therapy. The therapist can actually help the patient learn communication skills, hygiene and probably cooking.
These are general symptoms and therapies for dealing with catatonic schizophrenia. The severity and responsiveness to the treatment is relative and changes from individual to individual. however, with strong will power of the concerned individual and love and support from the family and loved ones, this psychological disorder can be kept in control.