Search Here

Schizophrenia, a severe mental illness characterized by hallucinations, delusion and impaired thinking, has long been a lesser-understood aspect of mental health care, particularly in women.

Recent research revealed that the prevalence of schizophrenia in American women, previously underestimated, stands at 1.6%, slightly lower than the 2% rate in men.

Deanna Kelly, a psychiatrist and researcher at the Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, emphasized via National Geographic the urgent need for more attention to schizophrenia in women. Historical lack of research has led to a poor understanding of gender differences in the disease, potentially resulting in less effective care.

Katy Thakkar, a psychologist at Michigan State University, noted significant gaps in our knowledge about schizophrenia in women. For instance, women typically experience their first schizophrenic episode in their late teens or early twenties, several years later than men, with some cases surfacing around menopause.

Contrary to longstanding beliefs, women with schizophrenia may not necessarily fare better than men. A study from Finland published in Nature suggests women are slightly more likely to be hospitalized in the decade following diagnosis, despite being less likely to commit suicide.

Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment

Women with schizophrenia often face misdiagnosis, as seen in the case of Analisa Chase, a 31-year-old autism therapist from Takoma, Washington. Initially diagnosed with bipolar disorder, it took a decade for her to receive the correct diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder.

Abigail Donovan, director of clinical services for the psychosis program at Massachusetts General Hospital, pointed out the challenge in diagnosing schizophrenia, as individuals often lack insight into their delusions. Family members and educators may play a critical role in recognizing symptoms, especially in men who tend to exhibit more pronounced negative symptoms like apathy.

Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Recent years have seen the emergence of First-Episode Clinics specializing in early interventions, which have proven effective in reducing symptoms and enhancing quality of life.

Gender-Specific Factors in Schizophrenia

Estrogen is known to play a protective role against schizophrenia in women, potentially explaining the slightly lower rate of illness compared to men. John Krystal, chair of psychiatry at Yale School of Medicine, told National Geographic that this hormonal protection may delay the onset of schizophrenia in women until after their teenage years, a crucial period for social development.

The withdrawal of estrogen during menopause can trigger schizophrenia in some women. Thakkar highlighted the lack of information and treatment guidelines for women diagnosed in midlife, who may respond differently to medications and could potentially benefit from menopausal hormone therapy.

Unique psychotherapies are also needed for women with late-onset schizophrenia, focusing on maintaining family relationships and addressing the challenges posed by the illness.