Mental Health
Schizophrenia
Also known as: Psychosis, Schizophrenic disorder
Schizophrenia condition guide: symptoms, causes, prevention, and when to seek care. Educational only — not a diagnosis.
Overview
Schizophrenia can include “positive” symptoms (delusions, hallucinations, disorganised speech), “negative” symptoms (low drive, withdrawal), and thinking problems. It is not “split personality”. It often starts in late teens or the 20s. Antipsychotic medicines, community rehabilitation, and talking therapy help. Family support is important.
Symptoms
- Hearing voices or seeing things that are not there
- Fixed false beliefs (delusions)
- Disorganised speech or behaviour
- Low drive and social withdrawal
- Trouble thinking clearly
- Self-harm risk in some episodes
Causes
Genetics, brain development, stress, and sometimes illicit drugs (e.g. cannabis in vulnerable youth). It is not parents’ fault.
Treatment (general information)
Antipsychotic medicines (oral or long-acting injections), rehabilitation programmes, family therapy, and housing/work support. Early treatment improves outcomes.
Prevention
There is no perfect prevention. Avoid illicit drugs if you have family history; seek help early for first signs.
When to see a doctor
Seek urgent care for new hallucinations/delusions, confusion, or risk of self-harm/harming others.
Frequently asked questions
- Can schizophrenia improve?
- Many people improve a lot with treatment; some need long-term support.
- Is it always dangerous?
- No. Violence is not a typical feature; stigma adds to suffering.