Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia services offered in Brooklyn, NY

About 1 in 300 people worldwide have schizophrenia, a condition characterized by delusions, hallucinations and distorted perceptions of the world around you. In Brooklyn, New York, dual board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Mary Cahill, PMHNP, can diagnose and help you manage schizophrenia symptoms to support a better quality of life. To schedule an evaluation with Mary Cahill, PMHNP, contact our office today.

Schizophrenia Q&A

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a serious mental health condition that affects how you behave, think, and feel, making it difficult to know what's real and what’s not. 

While schizophrenia is often a lifelong disorder, treatment with Mary can help you manage debilitating symptoms, feel better, and function more effectively.

What are the different types of schizophrenia spectrum disorders?

Examples of mental health conditions on the schizophrenia spectrum include:

  • Brief Psychotic Disorder
  • Schizophrenia
  • Schizoaffective Disorder
  • Schizophreniform Disorder
  • Delusional Disorder
  • Substance/Medication-Induced Psychotic Disorder

Which symptoms can schizophrenia cause?

The following are symptoms of schizophrenia:

  • Hallucinations (hearing or seeing things that aren’t there)
  • Delusions (irrational beliefs) 
  • Disorganized thinking or behaviors
  • Unusual or slowed body movements
  • Isolating behavior patterns
  • Emotional Blunting
  • Noticeable changes in hygiene and clothing

The symptoms of schizophrenia can have a negative impact on your relationships, job, school, and routine daily activities. 

What increases the risk of schizophrenia?

The cause of schizophrenia isn’t known, but it could appear to stem from genetic and/or environmental factors. Its risks may include substance misuse, family history of schizophrenia, low birth weight, or exposure to malnutrition, toxins, or viruses before birth.

How is schizophrenia diagnosed?

Mary diagnoses schizophrenia by completing a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation using DSM-5-TR criteria. As with any evaluation a thorough psychiatric, medical and psychosocial history is taken to inform proper diagnosis and choice of appropriate treatment.

How is schizophrenia treated?

Mary offers medication management, lifestyle changes, and combinations of treatments to reduce schizophrenia symptoms. She may also refer you to organizations such as Fountain House (a clubhouse community-based center for persons with serious mental illness), NAMI and others.

To schedule an evaluation with Mary Cahill, PMHNP, contact our office today.