Exploring the Past of Schizophrenia's Development

Delving into the Past: An Overview of Schizophrenia's Evolution

In the ancient world, conditions similar to schizophrenia were recognised, but the concept of modern schizophrenia did not exist. Ancient Egyptians, for instance, described symptoms resembling schizophrenia in texts such as "The Book of Hearts" and "The Ebers Papyrus". However, these were attributed to the influence of poison in the heart and uterus.

Fast forward to the Middle Ages, and symptoms associated with schizophrenia were often viewed as proof of demonic possession and sin. Treatment during this period was rudimentary, with trepanning - an early surgical procedure involving drilling holes in the skull - being a common practice.

It wasn't until the 19th century that the term "schizophrenia" was coined by Swiss psychiatrist Paul Eugen Bleuler. Before this, Emil Kraepelin had used the term "dementia praecox", meaning "premature dementia", to describe the condition.

The history of schizophrenia is fraught with ideas about spiritual causes and treatments that some may view as unethical or inhumane. In the 20th century, treatments such as insulin coma therapy, Metrazol shock, electroconvulsive therapy, and surgery were commonly used. The darker side of this period also saw the role of eugenics, with many people being sterilized without consent.

The 1950s marked a turning point with the development and release of antipsychotic medication, such as chlorpromazine. This led to widespread deinstitutionalization in the 1960s. The 1990s saw the development of more sophisticated antipsychotic medications, known as atypical antipsychotics.

Today, psychiatrist's diagnose schizophrenia using the DSM-5-TR criteria, which requires two or more of the following symptoms to be present for a diagnosis: hallucinations, delusions, catatonic or disorganized behaviour, disorganized speech, negative symptoms like avolition, flat affect, and alogia (reduction in speech).

Modern physicians and therapists have a wealth of effective tools to help treat schizophrenia. Comprehensive care programs that incorporate therapeutic approaches on multiple levels, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, cognitive enhancement therapy, family therapy, group therapy and peer support, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness training, can lead to greater success for schizophrenia treatment.

Antipsychotic medication is often used continuously in schizophrenia treatment plans to manage psychosis. However, it's important to note that the stigma around schizophrenia can lead to discomfort with a diagnosis, but a mental illness diagnosis does not automatically sentence someone to a bleak and painful life.

The stigma around schizophrenia is connected to historical beliefs about individuals with schizophrenia. Pervasive myths falsely associate it with violence, a "childlike" mind, and a "weak" character. However, a 2010 study showed that people with schizophrenia are often perceived as dangerous, despite most research suggesting they are generally nonviolent.

Learning about schizophrenia and the experience of living with it can be a powerful first step in addressing stigma. Listening to the voices of people with schizophrenia can also help address stigma.

According to the American Psychiatric Association, less than 1% of the U.S. population has schizophrenia. Philippe Pinel, a French physician, helped pave the way for humane psychiatric treatment in the late 18th century by refusing to chain his patients and practicing "moral therapy". This approach, focusing on understanding and empathy, continues to be a guiding principle in modern mental health care.