Schizophrenia under control: how early diagnosis and modern treatment can change patients' lives
Early recognition of schizophrenia symptoms, rapid implementation of treatment and development of modern, community psychiatric care are key elements of effective help for people struggling with this disease. Experts warn that Poland still lacks systemic solutions that could prevent many tragedies and improve the quality of life of patients. During the debate as part of the Rethinking Schizophrenia project, it was pointed out that the future of schizophrenia treatment depends on a comprehensive approach: medicine, psychology and health policy. Is the Polish health care system ready for these changes?
For effective help for people with schizophrenia, actions such as early diagnosis, rapid implementation of treatment – especially with long-acting drugs – and development of a community model of psychiatric care are crucial. According to experts participating in the debate organized as part of the Rethinking Schizophrenia project, such indications are essential for effective treatment of schizophrenia . The project carried out by the European Brain Council aims to assess the impact of modern therapies and systemic actions on the situation of patients in Europe.
According to Prof. Piotr Gałecki, national consultant for psychiatry , around 21 million people in the world currently suffer from schizophrenia. In Poland, this number is 180–200 thousand people using public health care . The disease affects men more often, and its first symptoms appear earlier in them than in women – usually between the ages of 20 and 28. In women, this period falls on the age of 26–32.
Schizophrenia develops insidiously – the first symptoms can be difficult to notice, and patients are often unaware that they need help. In the so-called prodromal period , which can last up to 4 years, subtle changes in thinking and behavior appear. This is when effective prevention is possible, but the healthcare system in Poland often does not respond quickly enough.
- Schizophrenia is a chronic disease, with periods of remission and relapse. Most patients do not recover completely, and their ability to function in society is often severely limited. Patients need not only pharmacological treatment , but also support from their families and the social care system. Meanwhile, Poland lacks a well-developed early intervention network. Many patients see specialists too late - said Prof. Piotr Gałecki, national consultant for psychiatry .
Experts emphasize that the use of long-acting drugs in the form of injections can significantly improve the effectiveness of therapy . Such drugs reduce the risk of relapses and limit mortality, and because they do not require daily administration, they are beneficial for patients who are unaware of the disease.
- During the active period of schizophrenia, brain structures atrophy more quickly. Therefore, treatment should be implemented immediately after the first symptoms appear. Unfortunately, in Poland, access to long-acting drugs is limited - they are only available to patients who have stopped cooperating with their doctor. They cannot be used immediately after diagnosis, even if they would be most advisable. The system forces patients to wait for their health condition to deteriorate - noted Prof. Piotr Gałecki, national consultant for psychiatry.
Too few specialists, limited access to psychological therapies and poor funding for psychiatry are serious obstacles to improving the quality of care for patients. Psychiatrists point out that comprehensive treatment should include neuropsychological assessment, family therapy and psychosocial support – but these are currently available mainly in large cities.
Updated: 06/06/2025 19:30
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