Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a chronic, severe mental illness that disrupts thinking, perception, emotions, and behavior. Symptoms include delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech or behavior, and negative symptoms like reduced motivation or social engagement¹. Onset typically occurs in late adolescence or early adulthood, with earlier presentation in males².

Prevalence in the U.S. ranges from 0.25% to 0.64%, and while exact causes remain unclear, research points to a combination of genetic, neurodevelopmental, and environmental factors². Diagnosis requires at least six months of symptoms with functional impairment.

Treatment relies on antipsychotic medications alongside psychosocial interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, family support, and case management. Coordinated specialty care improves long-term outcomes and reduces relapse risk^1,3.

Primary care and behavioral health providers play a key role in early recognition, medication monitoring, and supporting continuity of care. Collaborative, team-based approaches are essential to improving recovery and quality of life.