Piecing Together The Puzzle: Exploring The Complexity Of Quality Of Life In Schizophrenia
Ana Carolina da Silva Santos, MD, PhD
Academic at Faculdades Pequeno Príncipe, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
José Roberto Almeida Filho, MSc, MA
Academic at Faculdades Pequeno Príncipe, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
Abstract
Schizophrenia, a multifaceted syndrome impacting approximately 1% of the global population, ranks among the World Health Organization's top ten most debilitating conditions. Characterized by its chronic and intricate nature, schizophrenia significantly diminishes quality of life and precipitates suffering, affecting not only patients but also their families and caregivers. The onset typically occurs between the ages of 20 and 25, marked by psychotic episodes. Its unpredictable trajectory unfolds across four distinct stages: premorbid, prodromal, progression, and stabilization. The premorbid and prodromal phases precede the initial psychosis episode, featuring manifestations such as reduced sociability, social anxiety, and cognitive impairments including memory deficits and attentional disturbances. This comprehensive review explores the multifactorial dimensions influencing the quality of life among schizophrenia patients, shedding light on the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors underlying this debilitating condition.