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INTRODUCTION
• Schizophrenia is a mental health disorder that can lead
to delusions, hallucinations, trouble with thinking and
concentration, bizarre behavior, and lack of motivation.
• It affects nearly 1 out of every 100 people in the United States,
and typically begins in late adolescence or early twenties.
• When left untreated, it can lead to a lower quality of life and
shortened lifespan.
• Symptoms of schizophrenia can include:
» Hallucinations: hearing or seeing things that do not exist outside
of the mind
» Delusions: unusual beliefs not based on reality
» Muddled thoughts or disorganized thinking/speaking
» Losing interest in everyday activities, including things like personal
hygiene
» Wanting to avoid people, including friends
• Recovery from schizophrenia is a gradual process that is unique
to each person.
• When delivered in a timely, coordinated, and sustained manner,
medications and psychosocial treatments can reduce symptoms
and help affected individuals to engage in school or work,
achieve independence, enjoy personal relationships, and have a
good quality of life.
• This guide will help patients and family understand how
schizophrenia is diagnosed, what treatment options are available,
and what can be done to achieve the best possible outcomes.
