What is the difference between paranoia and schizophrenia

Skip to main content. Mental illness. Home Mental illness. Actions for this page Listen Print. Summary Read the full fact sheet. On this page. What is paranoia? Symptoms Paranoid symptoms may range from mild to severe. Three main types Paranoia is associated with three principal conditions: Paranoid personality disorder — considered the mildest type.

Most people with paranoid personality disorder function well despite their mistrust of the world. Delusional paranoid disorder — characterised by the dominance of one delusion false belief without any other sign of mental illness.

For example, a person who has a delusion of persecution believes that other people are spying on them or plotting to harm them in some way.

Stalking can be the result of delusional paranoid disorder — for example, the person believes they are in a relationship with a movie star they have never met. In another case, a person may imagine they have a terrible illness, despite repeated reassurance from doctors. Paranoid schizophrenia — considered the most severe type. Hallucinations, especially bizarre ones, are also common to the condition.

A person with paranoid schizophrenia often finds the world confusing and functions poorly without treatment. Causes are unclear The causes of paranoia are unclear and depend on the condition with which it is associated. Theories include: Genes — research is scanty and inconclusive.

It is also unclear whether genetic predisposition to paranoia — if it exists — is inherited or not. Brain chemistry — brain chemicals neurotransmitters form the basis of thoughts and feelings. Certain drugs such as cocaine, marijuana and amphetamines alter brain chemistry and can bring on paranoid thoughts, feelings and behaviours. This leads some researchers to believe that paranoia may be a biochemical disorder of the brain. The causes of this possible disorder are unknown. According to NAMI , the following may play a role in a wider treatment plan:.

Some researchers have suggested that cannabidiol CBD , an ingredient in cannabis, could play a role in treating schizophrenia.

However, confirming this will require more research. It is important that people with schizophrenia discuss any complementary treatments with their doctors. Is CBD legal? Hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0. Marijuana-derived CBD products, on the other hand, are illegal federally but legal under some state laws.

Check local legislation, especially when traveling. Some helpful strategies include :. A person with paranoia may fear that other people are pursuing and intending to harm them. This can have a severe impact on their safety and overall well-being. Treatment can often help a person manage their symptoms and live a full life. It is important to receive ongoing support. The levels of dopamine in the brain can contribute to the development of schizophrenia symptoms.

Learn more here. New research finds a link between dysfunction in the brain's synapses and symptoms of schizophrenia. The positive symptoms of schizophrenia include hallucinations, delusions, and changes in thoughts or behaviors.

Definition Symptoms Causes Diagnosis Treatment Managing Outlook A person with schizophrenia may experience delusional thinking, including paranoid thoughts. Share on Pinterest. Signs and symptoms. Causes and risk factors. Living with schizophrenia. Latest news Could 'cupping' technique boost vaccine delivery? For some, the medication may take up to 12 weeks to reach full effect. Some medications may continue to improve your symptoms over the course of many months.

Talk to your doctor about all the pros and cons of antipsychotics. Sometimes, your doctor may prescribe other medications to treat other symptoms. These drugs might include antianxiety drugs or antidepressants. Therapy options can include group or psychosocial therapies. It also builds a sense of community to help fight the isolation people with schizophrenia commonly face. Psychosocial therapies can help you cope with daily life more effectively.

These methods combine talk therapy with social strategies to help you function in a variety of settings. During therapy sessions, you learn mindfulness and stress management techniques, as well as warning signs that you need to communicate to your doctor or loved ones.

When detected early, schizophrenia with paranoia may respond successfully to medications and therapy. Hospitalization is also sometimes used for people who can no longer provide themselves with basic necessities, such as clothing, food, and shelter.

People who undergo treatment for schizophrenia can improve to a point where symptoms are mild to almost absent. Lifelong treatment is required to prevent other conditions associated with the disorder from occurring, such as:. Untreated schizophrenia can become disabling. Managing paranoid schizophrenia requires self-care. Do your best to follow these tips:. Advocate for treatment.

The symptoms might be so advanced that your loved one may not be able to seek treatment on their own. Keep track of their appointments. People with this disorder may also lack the skills to keep up with appointments with their doctors and therapists. You can help by adding these appointments to your calendar, too. Offer gentle reminders and a ride to the appointment, if needed. Investigate support groups.

Isolation is common with paranoid schizophrenia. The disorder causes such severe delusions that your loved one may not be social. Finding a support group can help. Acknowledge their symptoms and perceptions. Mocking your loved one or talking down to them will only increase isolation. Offer unconditional respect and support. Perhaps the most important thing you can offer as a caregiver is respect and support, no matter what your loved one is going through.

Remember that symptoms of schizophrenia can fluctuate. Treatment can take time, but it can also be successful.