Schizophrenia is a mental health disorder that affects approximately 1% of the population worldwide. It is often associated with symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized speech.

However, there is another term used in relation to schizophrenia – schizophrenic disorder – that can cause confusion. In this article, we will unpack the differences between these two terms.

What is Schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental health disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves.

The onset of schizophrenia usually occurs in the late teens to early 30s, and it can have a significant impact on a person’s ability to function in daily life.

Symptoms of schizophrenia are typically divided into three categories: positive, negative, and cognitive.

Positive symptoms include hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there), delusions (false beliefs that are not based in reality), and disordered thinking or speech. Negative symptoms involve a lack of emotional expression, reduced motivation, and a decreased ability to experience pleasure. Cognitive symptoms can impair memory, attention, and decision-making abilities.

The exact cause of schizophrenia is still unknown, but research suggests that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may contribute to its development.

Treatment options for schizophrenia often include a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and support services.

What is Schizophrenic Disorder?

The term schizophrenic disorder is not a formal diagnosis in the DSM-5 (the manual used by mental health professionals to diagnose mental health disorders). It is a term that is sometimes used interchangeably with schizophrenia.

However, some professionals may use the term to describe someone who exhibits some of the symptoms of schizophrenia but does not meet all of the diagnostic criteria for the disorder.

For example, a person who experiences some negative symptoms, such as lack of motivation, may be diagnosed with schizophrenic disorder if they do not exhibit any positive symptoms, such as hallucinations or delusions.

In this case, the diagnosis may fall under the broader category of “schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders” in the DSM-5.

Key Differences between Schizophrenia and Schizophrenic Disorder

While schizophrenia and schizophrenic disorder may be used interchangeably in some contexts, there are some key differences to be aware of. Here are some of the main distinctions:.

1. Diagnostic Criteria

The DSM-5 provides diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia, which includes the presence of at least two of the following symptoms for a significant portion of time during a one-month period:.

Delusions
Hallucinations
Disorganized speech
Grossly disorganized or catatonic behavior
Negative symptoms

A diagnosis of schizophrenic disorder may be used if an individual does not meet all of the diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia but exhibits some of the symptoms.

However, since this is not a formal diagnosis, there may be some variation in how it is used by mental health professionals.

2. Severity of Symptoms

Schizophrenia is typically associated with more severe symptoms than schizophrenic disorder. Individuals with schizophrenia may experience hallucinations and delusions that significantly impact their ability to function in daily life.

Negative symptoms can also be debilitating, making it difficult to maintain relationships, hold down a job, or attend school.

While schizophrenic disorder may involve some symptoms of schizophrenia, they may not be as severe as those experienced by someone with a formal diagnosis of schizophrenia.

3. Impact on Daily Life

Since schizophrenia is associated with severe symptoms, it can have a significant impact on a person’s ability to function in daily life.

Schizophrenia can make it difficult to hold down a job, maintain relationships with friends and family, and participate in activities that were once enjoyed.

While schizophrenic disorder may involve some symptoms that impact daily life, they may not be as severe or pervasive as those seen in schizophrenia.

Conclusion

The terms schizophrenia and schizophrenic disorder are sometimes used interchangeably, but there are some key differences to be aware of. While schizophrenia is a formal diagnosis with defined diagnostic criteria, schizophrenic disorder is not.

It may be used to describe someone who exhibits some, but not all, of the symptoms of schizophrenia.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms that may indicate schizophrenia or another mental health disorder, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional.

With proper treatment and support, individuals with schizophrenia can lead fulfilling lives.