Negative Symptoms of Schizophrenia : Hard to detect and treat
BOSTON, MA — Hallucinations and delusions are the most obvious symptoms of schizophrenia. But such psychotic or “positive” symptoms are not necessarily the most important or disabling ones. Another set of symptoms, called “negative” symptoms, are much more pervasive and persistent—and they have a much greater effect on a patient’s quality of life, reports the July issue of the Harvard Mental Health Letter.
Negative symptoms are marked by absence as much as presence: inexpressive faces, monotone speech, few gestures, seeming lack of interest in the world, and inability to feel pleasure. “Positive symptoms make treatment seem more urgent. But negative symptoms are the main reason patients with schizophrenia cannot live independently, hold jobs, establish personal relationships, and manage everyday social situations. These symptoms are also the ones that trouble them most,” says Dr. Michael Miller, editor in chief of the Harvard Mental Health Letter.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.