Psychology professor is building better treatments for schizophrenia

August 8, 2026 - 03:59

For most people, the word schizophrenia brings to mind hallucinations or delusions. But for Gregory Strauss, a psychology professor at the University of Georgia, the real puzzle lies in the quieter symptoms. The ones you cannot see. A person might lose interest in things they once loved. They might speak less, or show no emotion at all. These are called negative symptoms, and they are often the most disabling part of the illness.

Strauss has spent years studying these overlooked signs. His work is not just about understanding the brain. It is about building better treatments that actually help people live fuller lives. He and his team have developed digital tools that track facial expressions and speech patterns. These tools help measure symptoms in real time, rather than relying only on what a patient says in a clinic.

The goal is to move beyond the standard antipsychotic medications, which mostly target hallucinations but do little for motivation or pleasure. Strauss believes that with the right approach, even the most stubborn symptoms can improve. He is testing new therapies that combine behavioral exercises with wearable sensors. Early results look promising.

His research is a reminder that mental health care needs more than just pills. It needs patience, observation, and a willingness to ask better questions. For the millions of people living with schizophrenia, that kind of attention can make all the difference.