Schizophrenia an Overview

Schizophrenia is a mental disorder that affects the way a person acts, thinks, and sees the world. In schizophrenia there is an altered perception of reality, often a significant loss of contact with reality. They may see or hear things that don’t exist, speak in strange or confusing ways, and believe that others are trying to harm them. The line between the real and the unreal makes it difficult and frightening. The activities of daily life become unbearable. As a way of coping with the symptoms people with schizophrenia may withdraw from the outside world or respond with confusion and fear.


Most cases of schizophrenia appear in the late teens or early adulthood. It can affect young children and adolescents. The earlier onset of schizophrenia, the more severe it is. Schizophrenia also seems to be more severe in men than in women.


Schizophrenia, for some people, appears suddenly and without warning. But for the majority it comes on slowly, with slight warning signs and a slow decline in functioning they seem eccentric, unmotivated, unemotional, and reclusive before the disorder becomes serious. They isolate themselves, neglect their appearance, say peculiar things, and show an indifference to their environment.


Fragmented thinking is feature of schizophrenia. It can be observed in the way a person speaks. People with schizophrenia have trouble concentrating and retain thoughts related to the conversation. They may respond with an answer with a completely unrelated answer, begin sentences with one topic and end at a point completely different, they speak incoherently, or say illogical things.





Although schizophrenia is a chronic disorder, there is medical help. With support, medication, and therapy, many people with schizophrenia are able to function independently and live satisfying lives. However, the outlook is best when schizophrenia is treated early at the first signs of the disorder.


Treatment options for schizophrenia are effective in most cases, and the prognosis for the disorder therapy, many people with schizophrenia are able to control their symptoms, gain more independence, and lead fulfilling lives