Patients with major mental disorders like paranoid schizophrenia may have their symptoms become worse under the influence of these drugs. Scientists are studying the biochemical actions of such drugs to determine how they produce their behavioral effects. This may help us to learn more about the neurochemistry of paranoid disorders, which is poorly understood at this time. Some scientists believe paranoia may be a reaction to high levels of life stress. Lending support to this opinion is the evidence that paranoia is more prevalent among immigrants, prisoners of war, and others undergoing severe stress.
Some studies indicate that paranoia has become more prevalent in the twentieth century.
The connection between stress and paranoia does not, of course, rule out other contributing factors. Rarely will they talk casually in an interview. They may try to avoid hospitalization and drugs, fearing a loss of control or other real or imagined dangers. Drug Treatment Treatment with appropriate antipsychotic drugs may help the paranoid patient overcome some symptoms. Although the patient's functioning may be improved, the paranoid symptoms often remain intact.