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Health

Impact of Social Connections in Old Age

Impact of Social Connections in Old Age By Bhavya Gupta Introduction Social connections are an integral part of individuals’ mental and emotional well-being throughout their lives, especially in their later years. Social connectedness means a temporary feeling of belonging together with others. It can be defined in terms of inclusiveness, satisfaction with one’s social situation, and degree of saliency of ties, without necessarily requiring immediate contact. It translates social experiences arising from recent interactions with and the consciousness of others (Van Bel et.al., 2009). Good numbers of social relations have been reported to reduce depression and anxiety in geriatric populations (Scazufca & Seward, 2024). Old age is connected with a variety of psychosocial problems- loneliness, depression, and deterioration of cognitive functions among others In older adults, it has been established that social interaction and the frequency of socialization are correlated with decreased risk of cognitive failure and dementia (Mahalingam et al., 2023). For elderly people, one-fourth experience loneliness, which increases their vulnerability to various mental health problems (Scazufca & Seward, 2024). Further research also points out that even low levels of social interaction result in fewer depressive symptoms (Lee et al., 2024). Social isolation has been conceptualized as a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (Joshi et al., 2023). Psychological Landscape of Old Age In general, the psychological terrain of old age is burdened with complex mental health issues, arising from social isolation and loneliness. Literature shows that over half of older persons report suffering from social isolation, and a significant number estimated one-third-suffer severe loneliness, thus leading to further risks of mental health disorders such as depression and cognitive decline (Sivakumar et al., 2024; Puglia, 2022). Common Mental Health Challenges Depression and Anxiety: Depression during the old age stage is very common, which often roots into such emotional substructures as loss, diminished mobility, or the lessened sense of self-worth that accompanies retirement (Bryant, 2010). Depression in old age is also associated with cognitive impairment and contributes to a heightened risk for suicidal ideation and behaviours among older persons (Puglia, 2022). Cognitive Decline: Even though older adults remain dementia-free for their lifetime, there comes cognitive decline and neurodegenerative alteration with this advancing age, which suggests shared pathophysiological mechanisms (Gonzales et.al., 2019). According to these studies, it is noted that loneliness impacts mental well-being like what physical deteriorations do by worsening cognitive problems, as well as in conjunction with increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias (Kim & Chey, 2023). Dementia and Behavioral Symptoms: Behavioral symptoms including agitation, confusion, and aggression are common in some cases of dementia in the elderly, which puts demand on family relationships and increases the burden of formal caregivers. Under such strain, many families consider alternatives, opting for institutionalisation, since few caregivers can meet the high needs of their loved ones at home (Puglia, 2022). Contributing Factors Physical health: It has been observed that greater experiences of adversities over a lifetime impair physical health (Levinsky & Schiff, 2021). These often present chronic health conditions leading to a reduction in social interactions (Sivakumar et al., 2024). Retirement: Different types of social disconnection that cause much loneliness may surface as a result of the transition from working life to retirement (Kim & Chey, 2023). Life transitions: Emotional health can be seriously affected by phase transitions such as the death of loved ones or bereavement (“The Landscape of Loneliness,” 2022). Despite these common challenges in the ageing population, an impressive number of aged people display resilience and adaptiveness towards the ageing process. Research suggests that strong community support, family involvement, and opportunities for meaningful social interaction form a trinity to cushion these people from mental health-related challenges. Such an atmosphere that favours social engagement is critical in enhancing sound mental health and preventing experiences of loneliness among the elderly, culminating in improved quality of life. Social connection is eminent in ensuring good mental health, particularly in older adults. Valuable social networks can reduce loneliness, increase much-needed emotional support, and foster stimulating cognitive engagements that, in turn, lower the risk of developing severe cognitive decline. Such studies show that frequent social engagements grant them better emotional well-being; older adults with strong social networks are less likely to suffer from depression and anxiety (Awad et al., 2024; Scazufca & Seward, 2024). The Reduction of Loneliness and Isolation One of the salient dividends of social connections is bringing about a sense of well-being in older adults combating loneliness, which has been acknowledged as a significant problem in over 50% of older adults (Sivakumar et al., 2024). Loneliness in advanced years has seen its negative impact in causing emotional distress, and social engagement is an available remedy. Joining community activities such as clubs, going to senior centres, and group parties fosters a sense of belonging and agency, strengthening one’s identity and connection with others. Emotional Support Emotional support can be defined as care, concern, empathy, reassurance, comfort, and acceptance expressed through verbal or nonverbal means. Emotional support is quite important in self-help groups wherein members share support, and it is equally valuable in attachment relationships, wherein caregivers provide emotional support to children (American Psychological Association, 2018). This support reduces hopelessness and therefore lessens stress levels, which could otherwise be problematic for the affected aged persons dealing with their health issues, grief, or changing life transitions (Awad et al., 2024). Such emotional bonds offered to persons become shields when the mental scape is attacked or in poor condition and serve right that which had developed resilience among older adults, thus enabling them to cope better with life problems and maintain a feeling of positivity. There is ample vent for thinking that emotional support offers significant protection from cognitive decline, but the neural mechanisms that may or may not involve this support in such cognitive functions remain at best unclear (Kim et.al., 2019). Engagement for Cognitive Cliff: Development of Cognitive Abilities Frequent social interactions also continue to yield effectual support on cognitive health. Studies have shown that engaging socially stimulates cognitive

February 27, 2025 No Comments

Climate Action

The Climate-Conflict Nexus: Examining Environmental Change and Global Security Risks

This article examines the complex relationship between climate change and global security, highlighting how environmental degradation intensifies resource scarcity, social inequalities, and geopolitical tensions. It presents key case studies, such as the Syrian Civil War, the shrinking Lake Chad Basin, and rising sea levels affecting Pacific Island nations, demonstrating how climate impacts can drive conflicts. The article also offers policy recommendations, including investments in climate resilience, fostering international cooperation, addressing climate migration, and incorporating climate risks into security planning. It emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address the intertwined challenges of climate change and global instability.

February 27, 2025 No Comments

Quality Education

Breaking Barriers: Unleashing Women’s Education for Sustainable Change in India

Women’s education is a milestone for sustainable change. Education provides wisdom, clarity, and brings awareness into everyone’s life. Education gives empowerment to women, and empowerment creates a healthy lifestyle in women’s lives. Women play a significant role in the development of a sustainable society. At present, we couldn’t create a greater pathway without providing equitable, justifiable, and inclusive education to women. Women face a lot of challenges in their lives in regards to completing their education. In order to provide a safe atmosphere, along with government initiative, we also need to tackle all the barriers and have to remove social stigma, gender disparities, etc.

February 27, 2025 No Comments

Health

Efficacy of pharmacological interventions in schizophrenia treatment Research

by Palak Parashar, Humaira Hasan, Upasana Koul Introduction Schizophrenia is a serious brain disorder affecting around 1% of the global population and is one of the top 10 causes of disability worldwide (Marder & Cannon, 2019). This condition is characterized by symptoms such as hallucinations (e.g., seeing or hearing things that aren’t there), delusions (false beliefs), disorganized speech, and abnormal behavior. Additionally, individuals with schizophrenia often experience a lack of motivation, reduced emotional expression, and cognitive difficulties, including problems with thinking, memory, and decision-making (Jauhar, Johnstone, & McKenna, 2022). The impact on daily life can be significant, leading to severe disability and incomplete recovery. Even individuals who show improvement may still struggle with social isolation, stigma, and limited opportunities for building close relationships. Unemployment rates are high among those with schizophrenia, and lifestyle factors such as poor diet, weight gain, smoking, and substance use contribute to a reduced life expectancy of 13 to 15 years (Hjorthøj, Stürup, McGrath, & Nordentoft, 2017; Kahn, 2020). The lifetime risk of death by suicide for individuals with schizophrenia ranges from 5% to 10% (McCutcheon, Reis Marques, & Howes, 2020). Current diagnosis and treatment primarily target psychotic symptoms, but negative and cognitive symptoms are equally important due to their significant impact on social and professional functioning. These symptoms often do not respond well to conventional antipsychotic medications (Kahn, 2020; Jauhar, Johnstone, & McKenna, 2022). Historically, schizophrenia was conceptualized by Emil Kraepelin as “dementia praecox,” a term later renamed “schizophrenia” by Eugen Bleuler. Notably, both Kraepelin and Bleuler did not consider positive symptoms like delusions and hallucinations as the primary characteristics of the disorder. This historical perspective supports the view that a more comprehensive approach is needed for understanding and treating schizophrenia (Kahn, 2020). Schizophrenia diagnosis involves a detailed psychiatric history and mental status examination, ruling out other potential medical and psychiatric causes of psychosis. Risk factors for developing schizophrenia include birth complications, being born in a specific season, maternal malnutrition, maternal influenza during pregnancy, a family history of the disorder, childhood trauma, social isolation, cannabis use, minority ethnicity, and living in urban environments (Messias, Chen, & Eaton, 2007; Davis et al., 2016). The exact cause and biological mechanisms of schizophrenia remain unclear due to its complexity and variability. Despite being relatively uncommon, schizophrenia has a significant impact on the global burden of disease, with more than half of those diagnosed experiencing multiple coexisting psychiatric and medical conditions (Chong et al., 2016). The pharmacological treatment for schizophrenia:- Pharmacological treatment for schizophrenia primarily involves antipsychotic medications, which are categorized into two groups:- 1.First-generation antipsychotics (FGAs) 2.Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) 1)First-generation antipsychotics, also known as typical antipsychotics, are dopamine receptor antagonists (DRA). These include: Phenothiazines, trifluoperazine, perphenazine, prochlorperazine, acetophenazine, triflupromazine, mesoridazine Butyrophenones: haloperidol Thioxanthenes: thiothixene, chlorprothixene Dibenzoazepines: loxapine Dihydroindoles: molindone Diphenylbutylpiperidines: pimozide. (Drummond N, McCleary L, Freiheit E, Molnar F, Dalziel W, Cohen C, Turner D, Miyagishima R, Silvius J. 2018 Jennings AA, Guerin N, Foley T. Faden J, Citrome L. Pharmacother. 2019) . 2. Second-generation antipsychotics, also known as atypical antipsychotics, are serotonindopamine antagonists. As of 2016, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved 12 atypical antipsychotics. These are: Risperidone Quetiapine Aripiprazole Asenapine Lurasidone Iloperidone Brexpiprazole Clozapine ( Haddad PM, Correll CU. Nov 2018) . What is Schizophrenia? Schizophrenia may be defined as an acute mental illness that is characterized by disturbance in cognition( illogical thinking), behavior, speech, and hallucinations(hearing voices, seeing things that aren’t present) or delusions. (American Psychological Association, n.d.) The DSM-5, or the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, describes the symptoms of schizophrenia as including disorganized speech (e.g., frequent derailment or incoherence), delusions, hallucinations, or catatonic behavior. (NCBI, n.d., Table 22) Prevalence and Onset: Schizophrenia is a genetic neurocognitive disorder that affects approximately 1% of the population, typically appearing between the ages of 21 and 25 in males and 25 and 30 in females. (Zhan et al., 2023) Extensive research suggests that from 1990 to 2019, global schizophrenia cases rose by over 65%, new diagnoses by 37%, and health impacts (DALYs) by 65%, while age-adjusted rates stayed stable. (Solmi et al., 2023) Treatment: Schizophrenia treatment is lifelong and combines medications with psychosocial support, guided by a psychiatrist and a care team. Antipsychotic medications, including both first- and second-generation options, are the primary treatment, with long-acting injectables available for better adherence. Additional medications, such as antidepressants or mood stabilizers, may be used based on individual needs. Psychosocial approaches like therapy, social skills training, family support, and vocational rehabilitation enhance coping, communication, and daily life skills. Severe cases may require hospitalization for stabilization, while electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is considered for those unresponsive to other treatments. With proper care, many people with schizophrenia can manage their symptoms effectively. (Mayo Clinic, n.d.) Prescribed Drugs First-Generation Antipsychotics First-generation antipsychotics (FGAs), also known as typical antipsychotics, primarily work by blocking dopamine receptors to alleviate symptoms of various mental health conditions. These medications are commonly prescribed for issues such as acute mania, agitation, and bipolar disorder. Some examples of FGAs include Chlorpromazine (Thorazine), Fluphenazine (Prolixin), Haloperidol (Haldol), and Loxapine (Loxitane), among others. (Mayo Clinic, n.d.) Mechanism: Both first- and second-generation antipsychotics block dopamine in the ventral tegmentum to reduce positive symptoms. However, first-generation drugs also affect the nigrostriatal dopamine system, leading to extrapyramidal side effects, which second-generation drugs cause less frequently. (Grace & Uliana, 2023) Efficacy: Studies revealed minimal differences in efficacy between First Generation Antipsychotics and Second Generation Antipsychotics, but haloperidol was less effective than amisulpride and clozapine. Additionally, olanzapine showed greater improvement in functional capacity compared to quetiapine and ziprasidone. (Pike et al., 2009) Second Generation Antipsychotics Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs), also known as atypical antipsychotics, are newer medications that work differently from first-generation antipsychotics. Instead of fully blocking dopamine receptors, SGAs partially block them and may also influence other neurotransmitters like serotonin. Examples of SGAs include Aripiprazole (Abilify), Clozapine (Clozaril), Olanzapine (Zyprexa), Risperidone (Risperdal), and Quetiapine (Seroquel). (Mayo Clinic, n.d.) Mechanism: These medications inhibit some serotonin and dopamine

February 27, 2025 No Comments

Gender Equality

SDG 5: GENDER EQUALITY

Name- Shrutee Praharaj Enrollment number- 0791 DEMOGRAPHIC INDICATORS OF WOMEN IN ODISHA: AN ANALYSIS THROUGH THE LENS OF SDG 5 Introduction The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations member states in 2015, is a global blueprint aiming to achieve peace, prosperity, and sustainability for all. It calls for collective action to address critical global challenges- including poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation. Central to this agenda are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which include 169 specific targets (United Nations, 2021). Among these, SDG 5 focuses on achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls. Why SDG 5? Despite progress in reducing gender inequality, women and girls worldwide continue to face significant challenges. As per the United Nations website, in 56 countries, 20% of the girls between the ages of 15 to 19 years who have been in a sexual relationship have faced physical and/or sexual violence by their partners between the years 2015 and 2016. In 2017, 21% of women in the 20–24 age range or 650 million women were married before turning 18. In 30 countries, 1 in 3 15–19-year-old girls had been exposed to genital mutilation around 2017. Between 2000 and 2016, women performed house labour and worked as nurses in nearly 90 nations without receiving pay which was roughly three times that of men. Women are also paid 16% less than men (Küfeoğlu, 2022). SDG 5 Goals and Targets SDG 5 outlines several specific targets aimed at ending gender-based discrimination and violence, ensuring access to sexual and reproductive health rights, and promoting women’s participation in all aspects of society. Key targets include: 5.1 End all forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere 5.2 Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation 5.3 Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child, early and forced marriage and female genital mutilation 5.4 Recognise and value unpaid care and domestic work through the provision of public services, infrastructure and social protection policies and the promotion of shared responsibility within the household and the family as nationally appropriate 5.5 Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making in political, economic and public life 5.6 Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform for Action and the outcome documents of their review conferences 5.A Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as access to ownership and control over land and other forms of property, financial services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national laws 5.B Enhance the use of enabling technology, in particular information and communications technology, to promote the empowerment of women 5.C Adopt and strengthen sound policies and enforceable legislation for the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls at all levels ((United Nations, n.d.) About Odisha The name “Odisha” originates from the Sanskrit term ‘Odra Vishaya’ or ‘Odra Desa,’ which referred to the ancient region located in the Mahanadi River valley and the lower Subarnarekha River. This area included what is now the districts of Cuttack and Sambalpur and part of Midnapore, bordered by Gondwana to the west, Jashpur and Singhbhum to the north, the sea to the east, and Ganjam to the south. Once a land of kings and kingdoms, modern Odisha is renowned for its abundant natural resources, intricate temple architecture, classical dance forms, diverse religious traditions, and vibrant fairs and festivals. Its handlooms, handicrafts, lush forests, rock caves, and scenic hills have long drawn the interest of historians and travellers alike. Odisha’s rich history, including its freedom movement and tribal culture—marked by dance, music, rituals, and traditions—continues to be a subject of research for historians and scholars globally (Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, n.d.). Demographic Indicators The percentage of women in Odisha’s population has declined from 50.6% in 1951 to 49.46% in 2011, primarily due to male migration, especially in urban areas where the female population is lower at 48.23%, compared to rural areas at 49.71%. This urban-rural disparity indicates the need for policy interventions to balance the gender ratio in cities and address the underlying causes of gender imbalance, such as economic migration and societal norms. The sex ratio in Odisha, which stands at 979 females per 1000 males in 2011, is slightly better than the national average of 943, though urban areas have a lower ratio of 932. The higher ratio in rural areas (989 females per 1000 males) may be attributed to male outmigration for employment. While its sex ratio is relatively higher than many other Indian states, it still reflects deep-rooted gender biases and societal challenges, such as female foeticide, that need to be addressed to achieve true gender parity. The maternal mortality ratio (MMR) in Odisha has steadily improved, dropping from 424 per 100,000 live births in 1999-2001 to 222 in 2011-2013. This decline is largely the result of targeted health interventions, such as the National Rural Health Mission, which has improved access to maternal healthcare services in the state. Despite this progress, Odisha’s MMR remains above the national average, highlighting the need for continued efforts to provide quality maternal healthcare, especially in rural and underserved areas. Reducing MMR is critical for achieving SDG 5, as it directly impacts women’s health and well-being. Odisha has made significant strides in improving female literacy, with rates increasing from a mere 4.52% in 1951 to 64.36% in 2011. While urban female literacy peaks at a solid 80.42%, rural female literacy lags at 60.74%. This wide gap between urban and rural literacy rates points to the need for more focused efforts in rural education and empowerment programs. Increased literacy among women is essential for socioeconomic progress and directly correlates with better health outcomes, reduced fertility rates,

February 27, 2025 No Comments

Health

How Finland’s Approach to SDG 3 Can Help India Improve Health and Well-being

United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 aims to, “ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.” Towards this goal of achieving a healthier world, India and Finland set targets for their health sector. Though the journeys of the two countries mirror jarring contrasts in both their health care systems, socio-economic conditions, and governmental policies.

India has traveled a long distance but has much more to cover in terms of dealing with issues like maternal mortality, malnutrition, and access to health delivery. Finland is often considered one of the best countries in the world to fall ill in because of its high-performing system with universal access and very strong preventive measures. This article examines the performance of the two countries on SDG 3 and explores what India can learn from Finland’s successes in health.

February 27, 2025 No Comments

Good Health and Well-being

Role of Parenting in psychological issues in children

Role of Parenting in psychological issues in children Children of today are given mobile phones, PCs, internet etc at a very young age. He or she has access to everything that can be a potential threat to them because they are at a vulnerable age where they are still developing and are easy to influence. These technologies are exposing them to media and content that is negatively impacting the children and the younger generations are a proof of it today. What is addiction ? Addiction refers to a condition wherein the person is unable to separate themselves from certain things, they need it, have increased tolerance to it that is they can keep increasing it’s consumption each time and if it is taken away from them they can’t live with that and may react very aggressively, lack of control etc. Addiction is not only to substances like caffeine, alcohol, opioids etc but in this digital world also to the internet, social media, games etc. Globally 26.99% children are smartphone addicted 17.42% are social media addicted 14.22% have internet addiction, and 6.04% are game addicts, boys are mostly game and internet addicted (Meng et al., 2022). While according to The Hindu there are 1.5 crore children between age 10 to 17 who are addicted to substances in India (The Hindu, 2022). Addiction is a complex process but it usually occurs due to changes in brain chemistry. Whenever we do something rewarding, “feel good” chemicals are released in the body that makes one do that thing again and again. In case of addiction ( a disease) certain things like substances, spending money, sex etc can stimulate a release of these chemicals in great amounts and the person finds themselves wanting to do that thing, with time they no longer feel the same pleasure as before as then they increase its consumption and get stuck in a loop where they constantly repeat it while also increasing its intake. Problem with addiction in children Addiction is especially very problematic in children because their brain is not completely developed so it is very easy for them to become addicted as well as it is more harmful as well as it can later traumatise them and develop into mental disorders. Today a child has a plethora of game options to choose from. While there are some games that are beneficial which are also used by psychologists on their clients for treatment and rehabilitation of certain disorders as these games help improve cognitive functioning. Similar effect of improvement in cognition is seen with activities like sports and arts (Rosyati et al., 2020). That is why for optimal development of a child games are also vital. It was seen in professional gamers that the brain volume and functionality in the insular region (region in the brain associated with language processing, taste, smell and interpersonal abilities) is increased (Rosyati et al., 2020). But mostly the games children are playing today are harming them because these are usually online games which glue them to their screens for long durations. This is impacting their physical health because there is lack of movement throughout the day which is very crucial at an age where they are growing and so their muscles need to be worked for a strong body. The problem with these games doesn’t end there, the children are addicted. They are spending hours playing online games. Research found that children and adolescents with game addiction show changed brain structure and function and have limited control on their impulses (Rosyati et al., 2020). They have phones and PCs which means they must also have access to the internet. Children are living virtually more than in real life, if they want to talk to their friends they would prefer texting them rather than meeting them. They spend hours on the internet and social media but they don’t have friends and they don’t know how to make friends in the real world, they compare themselves with people online and feel jealous or envious, acquire insecurities, feel lonely, feel less worthy. Internet addiction affects a child’s physical and mental health by interfering with their exercise time and sleep time (Zhou, Zhu et al., 2022). Not only this but high-risk Internet users don’t have proper diet quality and also ill dietary behaviour which can hinder in healthy growth and development of the individual (Kim, Park et al. 2010 ). Internet addiction is associated with higher sympathetic activity that indicates increased heart rate and lower parasympathetic activity (Pi-Chu Lin et al., 2014). There are a lot of adverse effects of addiction problems which can be categorised into : Physical health : They are at a higher risk of developing health issues like due to their lack of activities. They are at a risk of getting obese, having poor eyesight etc. They are also exposed to radiation coming from these devices for long periods of time. They also suffer from insomnia. Mental health : They are more likely to be lonely, anxious, stressed etc and have lower self esteem due to overconsumption of media online. They can feel they are lacking behind. In severe cases they may develop depression and anxiety disorder. Social health : Due to spending the majority of their time indoors virtually, they lack social skills, they won’t be able to build social bonds or maintain them. In severe cases they can develop disorders like social conduct disorder, antisocial behaviour etc. Academics : Many researches have shown that addicted children suffer academically. They are unable to score well, pay attention in the class, problem solve etc. Role of parenting in child development We know children grow up looking at their parents so parenting style and family environment matters for raising a healthy and happy child. The major types of parenting styles are authoritarian, authoritative, permissive and neglectful. Authoritarian parenting style is in which the parents exercise complete control over their children with no flexibility for child’s emotions, strict rules, no chance for children

February 26, 2025 No Comments

Health

SCHIZOPHRENIA

SCHIZOPHRENIA -By Eesha Madan 1) Key facts: 1.1 Schizophrenia does not involve split personalities. 1.2 Symptoms of schizophrenia usually emerge in adolescence. 1.3 Schizophrenia has both genetic and environmental causes. 1.4 The only way to diagnose schizophrenia is through a combination of tests. 1.5 Schizophrenia causes psychosis and is associated with considerable disability, potentially affecting all areas of life including personal, family, social, educational, and occupational functioning. 2) What is “Schizophrenia”? Schizophrenia is a complex, chronic mental health disorder characterized by an array of symptoms, including delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech or behavior, and impaired cognitive ability. In clinical settings, schizophrenia is ordinarily diagnosed through the observation of positive symptoms (delusions, hallucinations, disordered speech, and behavioral disturbances) and negative symptoms (a volition, alogia, and anhedonia). However, schizophrenia has considerable overlap with other neurological disorders (e.g., bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorder, and Huntington’s disease) at both the clinical and genetic levels. The study of schizophrenia is important because it can help us understand the brain and mind, the biological nature of the disorder, and the severity of its symptoms 3) What are the symptoms of Schizophrenia The symptoms of schizophrenia can be divided into three categories: 3.1 Positive symptoms (i.e. excesses of thoughts, emotions & behaviour ) 3.2 Negative symptoms (i.e. deficits of thoughts, emotions & behaviour) 3.3 Psychomotor symptoms 3.1 Positive Symptoms: Positive symptoms of schizophrenia include hallucinations, delusions, and any changes in thoughts or behaviours. Positive symptoms are those that affect the individual’s thoughts or behaviours. They are pathological and bizarre additions to a person’s behaviour: delusions, disorganized thinking and speech. 3.1.1 Delusions : Delusions are fixed, false beliefs that conflict with reality. If a person is delusional, they can not let go of their untrue convictions despite contrary evidence. Types of delusions: Delusions of persecution: Most common in schizophrenia. People with this delusion believe they are being plotted against, spied on, slandered, threatened, attacked or deliberately victimized. Delusions of reference: In which they attach special and personal meaning to the actions of others. Delusions of grandeur: People believe themselves to be specially empowered persons. Delusions of control: They believe that their feelings, thoughts and actions are controlled by others. Erotomanic: Believing someone else is in love with you is an Erotomanic delusion. For example, an Erotomanic delusion might include thinking a celebrity loves you even when you’ve never met or corresponded. Nihilistic delusions: they get their name from the philosophical concept of nihilism, which suggests life has no fundamental meaning or purpose. Nihilistic delusions involve thoughts related to non-existence, like believing a major catastrophe will occur or that humanity is already in the afterlife. Somatic delusions: It involves a preoccupation with health and organ function. They can include irrational beliefs about how your body functions or inaccurate beliefs about how natural sensations predict illnesses—for example, attributing the typical sensation of hunger to progressive stomach cancer. Bizarre delusions: This includes any false belief that is completely implausible, isn’t derived from ordinary life experiences, and isn’t seated in cultural practices. 3.1.2 Formal thought disorder: People aren’t able to think logically and they may speak in peculiar ways, so this disorder can make communication extremely difficult. This includes rapidly jumping from one topic to another. So their normal structure of thinking is muddled and becomes illogical. 3.1.3 Hallucinations: A hallucination happens when you receive sensory information that doesn’t exist — it’s a disturbance in perception created by your brain. Types of hallucination : Auditory. The person most often hears voices in their head. They might be angry or urgent and demand that they do things. It can sound like one voice or many. They might whisper, murmur, or be angry and demanding. Visual. Someone might see lights, objects, people, or patterns. Often it’s loved ones or friends who are no longer alive. They may also have trouble with depth perception and distance. Olfactory and gustatory. This can include good and bad smells and tastes. Someone might believe they’re being poisoned and refuse to eat. Tactile. This creates a feeling of things moving on your body, such as hands or insects. Somatic. This includes the feeling and sensations of something happening inside the body. 3.1.4 Inappropriate Affect People with schizophrenia also show Inappropriate affect, i.e. showing or expressing emotions that are unsuited to the situation. For eg- laughing at your loved one’s funeral. 3.2 Negative Symptoms: Affective flattening: Impaired emotional expression 2. Alogia: decreased speech output Asociality: reduced desire to have social contact Avolition: reduced drive to initiate and persist in self-directed purposeful activities Anhedonia: decreased experience of pleasure Blunted affect: It includes showing emotions less for eg: less anger, sadness, joy and other feelings. Flat affect: This eludes showing no emotions at all. 3.3 Psychomotor Symptoms: Catatonic stupor: People who remain motionless and silent for long periods. Catatonic rigidity: It includes people who maintain rigid and upright postures for hours. Catatonic Posturing: In this people assume awkward and bizarre positions for long periods. 4) What causes Schizophrenia Medical researchers have not been able to find the exact causes of schizophrenia. Research now tells us that the disorder is linked to abnormalities in the structure of the brain. Some factors are believed to put a person at a greater risk of developing schizophrenia: Genetic factors: Having a parent or sibling with schizophrenia puts the person at increased risk A chemical imbalance in the brain Problems during pregnancy: The child may develop schizophrenia if the mother does not receive proper nutrition, or is exposed to viral illnesses

February 26, 2025 No Comments

Responsible Consumption and Production

The Role of Circular Economy in Plastic Waste Management

Plastic waste is a growing global problem, and finding sustainable solutions is more important than ever. This article explores how the circular economy can help manage plastic waste by shifting from the traditional “use and throw away” approach to a system where plastics are recycled, reused, and redesigned. By extending the life of plastic materials and reducing waste, the circular economy offers a way to tackle pollution and create a more sustainable future. While there are challenges, such as costs and technology limitations, the potential for positive change is clear. With cooperation from governments, businesses, and consumers, we can move towards a cleaner, more sustainable world.

February 26, 2025 No Comments

Health

The Dark Side of DNA: Genetic Markers Linked to Aggression

The MAOA and CDH13 genes are associated with aggression and criminal behavior, influencing neurotransmitter regulation. Genetics and environmental factors shape behavioral tendencies, with research highlighting their role in impulsivity and violence. Understanding these genes helps explore the biological basis of aggression, mental health disorders, and potential therapeutic interventions for at-risk individuals.

February 23, 2025 No Comments

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