Overview

Schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder characterized by abnormal interpretations of reality. It can lead to a combination of hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking and behavior that impairs daily functioning and can be disabling. People with schizophrenia require lifelong treatment, and early intervention may improve the long-term outlook.

Symptoms

Schizophrenia involves a range of problems with thinking, behavior, and emotions. Common symptoms include:

• Delusions: False beliefs not based in reality.
• Hallucinations: Seeing or hearing things that don't exist.
• Disorganized thinking (speech): Impaired communication with unrelated answers or word salad.
• Extremely disorganized or abnormal motor behavior: Unpredictable agitation or resistance to instructions.
• Negative symptoms: Reduced or lack of ability to function normally, such as neglecting personal hygiene or lack of emotion.

Symptoms can vary in type and severity over time, and some symptoms may always be present.

Symptoms in Teenagers

Schizophrenia symptoms in teenagers can be difficult to recognize, as they may overlap with typical developmental changes during adolescence. Some symptoms include withdrawal, drop in school performance, trouble sleeping, irritability, and lack of motivation. Compared to adults, teenagers with schizophrenia may be less likely to have delusions and more likely to have visual hallucinations.

When to See a Doctor

If you suspect someone may have symptoms of schizophrenia, talk to them about your concerns. Although you can't force someone to seek help, offering encouragement and support may help them find a qualified doctor or mental health professional. If the person poses a danger to themselves or others, or is unable to provide for their basic needs, consider calling emergency responders or contacting community mental health agencies for assistance.

Causes

The exact cause of schizophrenia is unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetics, brain chemistry, and environmental factors. Problems with certain brain chemicals and differences in brain structure have been observed in people with schizophrenia, indicating that it is a brain disease.

Risk Factors

Factors that may increase the risk of developing or triggering schizophrenia include a family history of the disorder, pregnancy and birth complications, and the use of mind-altering drugs during adolescence and young adulthood.

Complications

Left untreated, schizophrenia can lead to severe problems affecting various aspects of life, including suicide, anxiety disorders, depression, substance abuse, inability to work or attend school, financial problems, social isolation, health issues, victimization, and aggressive behavior.

Prevention

There is no sure way to prevent schizophrenia, but sticking to the treatment plan can help prevent relapses or worsening of symptoms. Researchers are exploring risk factors for earlier diagnosis and treatment.