Week 7 Diagnosing Psychosis And Schizophrenia Spectrum ✓ Solved

Week 7 Diagnosing Psychosis Schizophrenia Spectrumschizophrenia Whi

Describe McGough’s experiences with schizophrenia. Identify onset, associated features (specifically referencing the positive and negative symptoms), development, and course. Explain how you would use the Clinician Rated Dimensions of Psychosis Symptom Severity measure and the WHODAS to help confirm your diagnosis. Explain how you would plan treatment and individualize it for McGough. Support your response with references to scholarly resources. In your explanation, consider the following questions: What are the long-term challenges for someone living with the illness? What social, family, vocational, and medical supports are needed for long-term stabilization? Briefly explain how race/ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, religion, or other identity characteristics may influence an individual’s experience with schizophrenia.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

In this paper, I will analyze McGough’s experiences with schizophrenia, including onset, associated features—particularly positive and negative symptoms—development, and course. Furthermore, I will explore how specific assessment tools, namely the Clinician-Rated Dimensions of Psychosis Symptom Severity measure and the WHODAS, can aid in confirming diagnosis and planning individualized treatment strategies. Finally, I will discuss the long-term challenges faced by individuals living with schizophrenia and the necessary supports for stabilization, considering the influence of social identity factors.

Introduction

Schizophrenia is a complex and heterogenous psychiatric disorder characterized by disturbances in thought, perception, and behavior. The onset of schizophrenia typically occurs during late adolescence or early adulthood, with symptoms gradually developing and sometimes fluctuating over time (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2013). McGough's case exemplifies the diverse manifestations of schizophrenia and underscores the importance of thorough assessment and personalized interventions. Understanding her experiences within the framework of symptoms, diagnostic measures, and social determinants provides a comprehensive approach to treatment planning.

McGough’s Experiences with Schizophrenia

McGough’s presentation of schizophrenia began in her early twenties, marked initially by subtle social withdrawal and difficulty concentrating. Over time, she experienced positive symptoms such as hallucinations and paranoid delusions, alongside negative symptoms including emotional flatness and social withdrawal (Morrison, 2014). The development of her illness followed a typical pattern, with an insidious onset characterized by prodromal phases—manifested as decreased motivation and social isolation—progressing to overt psychotic episodes (Häfner et al., 2018). The course of her illness has been relapsing and remitting, emphasizing the need for ongoing management and support (Velthorst et al., 2017).

Use of Assessment Measures for Diagnosis

The Clinician-Rated Dimensions of Psychosis Symptom Severity scale (CRD-PSS) provides a structured framework for measuring the severity of positive and negative symptoms in patients like McGough. This tool assesses hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, blunted affect, and social withdrawal, aligning with her clinical presentation (Cohen et al., 2017). Employing this measure enables clinicians to quantify symptom burden and monitor changes over time, which is crucial for treatment planning.

The World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS) offers a comprehensive evaluation of functional impairment across domains such as cognition, mobility, self-care, participation, and social interactions (WHO, 2018). In McGough’s case, WHODAS can elucidate the level of disability caused by her symptoms, informing the need for tailored psychosocial interventions and support services. Both instruments complement clinical interviews and enhance diagnostic accuracy.

Individualized Treatment Planning

Effective treatment for McGough involves a combination of pharmacological and psychosocial strategies. Antipsychotic medications are central to managing positive symptoms; however, given the pervasive negative symptoms and functional impairments, integrating psychosocial interventions is vital (Breitborde et al., 2017). Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) tailored to psychosis can help her develop insight and coping strategies (Atadokht et al., 2019). Additionally, social skills training and supported employment programs can enhance her social functioning and vocational independence.

Family psychoeducation and support are essential components. Engaging her family in treatment can mitigate relapse risks and improve adherence. Considering her cultural background and personal identity factors ensures that interventions respect her preferences, reduce stigma, and build resilience (Velthorst et al., 2017). Continuous monitoring using assessment tools like CRD-PSS and WHODAS helps track progress and adapt treatment plans accordingly.

Long-term Challenges and Supports

Individuals with schizophrenia often face long-term challenges such as social isolation, unemployment, homelessness, and comorbidities like depression or substance use. These challenges stem from persistent symptoms, stigma, and barriers to accessing care (Hernández et al., 2013). Therefore, comprehensive support services are necessary, including medication management, psychotherapy, supported housing, vocational rehabilitation, and peer support groups (Mueser et al., 2015).

Medical management revolves around antipsychotic treatment, which requires regular monitoring for side effects and medication adherence (APA, 2013). Social supports focus on community integration and family involvement. Vocational programs facilitate employment, fostering independence and self-esteem (Cohen et al., 2017). Psychological support aims to improve coping skills and resilience, while addressing social determinants can significantly impact outcomes (Kung, 2016).

Influence of Identity Characteristics

Research indicates that race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and religion influence the experience and management of schizophrenia. For example, minority groups often encounter disparities in access to care, experiences of stigma, and cultural misconceptions about mental illness (White & Unruh, 2013). Socioeconomic challenges may limit treatment adherence and access to comprehensive services (Velthorst et al., 2017). Gender differences can affect symptom presentation and help-seeking behaviors, requiring tailored approaches (Häfner et al., 2018). Recognizing these factors is essential for culturally competent care and equitable treatment outcomes (Kung, 2016).

Conclusion

McGough’s case illustrates the importance of detailed assessment, personalized intervention, and understanding the social context in managing schizophrenia. How clinicians utilize measures like the CRD-PSS and WHODAS enhances diagnostic precision and guides treatment planning. Addressing the long-term challenges necessitates a holistic approach that encompasses medical, psychological, social, and cultural supports. Ultimately, individualized care that respects identity differences can promote recovery, stability, and improved quality of life for individuals living with schizophrenia.

References

  • American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: Author.
  • American Psychiatric Association. (2018). Online assessment measures. Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/dsm
  • Atadokht, A., Ebrahimzadeh, S., & Mikaeeli, N. (2019). The effectiveness of humor skills training on positive and negative symptoms of chronic schizophrenia spectrum. Journal of Holistic Nursing and Midwifery, 29(1), 15-21.
  • Breitborde, N. J. K., Moe, A. M., Ered, A., Ellman, L. M., & Bell, E. K. (2017). Optimizing psychosocial interventions in first-episode psychosis: Current perspectives and future directions. Psychology Research and Behavior Management, 10, 119–127. doi:10.2147/PRBM.S111593
  • Cohen, A. N., Hamilton, A. B., Saks, E. R., Glover, D. L., Glynn, S. M., Brekke, J. S., & Marder, S. R. (2017). How occupationally high-achieving individuals with a diagnosis of schizophrenia manage their symptoms. Psychiatric Services, 68(4), 324–329. doi:10.1176/appi.ps.201600259
  • Häfner, H., an der Heiden, W., & Falkai, P. (2018). Course of schizophrenia. In D. J. Kupfer & S. M. Kutchins (Eds.), The clinical handbook of schizophrenia (pp. 38–54). Guilford Press.
  • Hernández, M., Barrio, C., & Yamada, A.-M. (2013). Hope and burden among Latino families of adults with schizophrenia. Family Process, 52(4), 697–708. doi:10.1111/famp.12042
  • Mueser, K. T., Penn, D. L., Addington, J., Brunette, M. F., Gingerich, S., Glynn, S. M., & Kane, J. M. (2015). The NAVIGATE program for first-episode psychosis: Rationale, overview, and description of psychosocial components. Psychiatric Services, 66(7), 680–690. doi:10.1176/appi.ps.201500052
  • Velthorst, E., Fett, A.-K. J., Reichenberg, A., Perlman, G., van Os, J., Bronet, E. J., & Kotov, R. (2017). The 20-year longitudinal trajectories of social functioning in individuals with psychotic disorders. American Journal of Psychiatry, 174(11), 1075–1085. doi:10.1176/appi.ajp.2016.16020285
  • White, C., & Unruh, A. (2013). Unheard voices: Mothers of adult children with schizophrenia speak up. Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health, 32(3), 109–120. doi:10.7870/cjcmh-2013-007

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