What are negative symptoms of schizophrenia at 24?
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
I am 24 and was diagnosed with schizophrenia last year. Everybody talks about hearing voices and stuff, but nobody really talks about how hard it is just to care about anything. I barely enjoy things anymore, and getting myself to do simple stuff is a struggle. My family thinks I am just lazy, which honestly sucks.
Are these the negative symptoms people talk about or what?
Please help.
Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I read your query and can understand your concern.
I am sorry you are going through this. What you are describing does sound very much like what doctors call negative symptoms of schizophrenia. These can include
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Reduced motivation.
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Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy.
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Difficulty starting or completing everyday tasks.
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Reduced emotional expression.
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Social withdrawal.
Many people are familiar with symptoms such as hearing voices or unusual beliefs, but negative symptoms can be just as disabling and are often misunderstood by family and friends as laziness or a lack of effort. The fact that you want to care and are frustrated by these changes suggests this is not simply laziness.
Negative symptoms can make it difficult for a person to feel motivated, express emotions, or engage in everyday activities, even when they genuinely want to.
It is important to discuss these symptoms with your psychiatrist because they can be related to schizophrenia itself, depression, medication side effects, or a combination of factors. and treatment approaches may differ depending on the cause.
With proper support, medication review, therapy, and structured daily routines, many people are able to improve these symptoms over time.
I hope I have answered your question.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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