Overview
Schizophrenia affects thinking, perception, emotion and behaviour. Symptoms are positive (delusions, hallucinations, disorganised speech/behaviour), negative (reduced expression and motivation, withdrawal) and cognitive. Causes combine genetic vulnerability, brain development and neurotransmitter differences, and environmental stress or substance use — not parenting. Treatment centres on antipsychotic medication plus CBT, social-skills training, vocational support and family psychoeducation; early, coordinated care (e.g., NIMH RAISE) improves outcomes. Most people with schizophrenia are not violent; stigma delays care.
- Korea
- 109 (suicide prevention), 1577-0199 (mental health crisis)
- US
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- UK/Ireland
- Samaritans 116 123
- Emergency
- Local emergency number
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or medical advice. If you are concerned, please consult a qualified health professional.
Frequently asked questions
- Can people recover?
- Courses vary, but many people manage symptoms well with continued treatment.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.; DSM-5-TR).
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2014). Psychosis and schizophrenia in adults: prevention and management (CG178).
- Kane, J. M., et al. (2016). Comprehensive versus usual community care for first-episode psychosis: 2-year outcomes from the NIMH RAISE early treatment program. American Journal of Psychiatry, 173(4), 362–372.
- 국립정신건강센터. 국가정신건강정보포털(mentalhealth.go.kr), 조현병.