Schizophrenia

Definition/diagnostic criteria Schizophrenia is a psychotic disorder. Positive symptoms include auditory hallucinations, unusual sensory perceptions​​​​, delusions and thought disorder. Negative symptoms are characterised by a loss of motivation, interest, and emotional expression, leading to a diminished ability to function in daily life​​.

Epidemiology In the UK, schizophrenia affects approximately 1 in every 100 people over their lifetime​​. The exact causes remain unknown, but it’s believed to result from a combination of genetic, biological and environmental factors​​.

Diagnosis Diagnosis of schizophrenia involves a comprehensive assessment by a mental health specialist. Differential diagnosis is crucial, especially in distinguishing schizophrenia from bipolar disorder and schizoaffective disorder​​.

Treatment The focus is on early recognition, management of acute episodes, promoting long-term recovery, and addressing coexisting health problems and side-effects of medication​​​​. Treatment plans are tailored to individual needs, often involving antipsychotic medication.

Prognosis Prognosis varies significantly among individuals. Factors influencing prognosis include the severity and duration of symptoms, treatment effectiveness, and the presence of coexisting conditions. The emphasis is on achieving long-term recovery, which encompasses not just symptom management but also functional improvement and quality of life enhancement.

Further reading

Published: 31st July 2022 Updated: 14th February 2024

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Pulse Reference is based on the best-selling book Symptom Sorter. The experts behind Pulse Reference are Dr Keith Hopcroft who is the co-author of Symptom Sorter, a GP in Essex and Pulse’s editorial advisor and Dr Poppy Freeman, a GP in Camden and also a clinical advisor to Pulse. This website is for clinical guidance only and cannot give definitive diagnostic information. Practitioners should work within the limits of their individual professional practice, seek guidance when necessary and refer appropriately.