Information on this page is intended for a UK general audience.
Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a long-term mental health condition. It causes a range of different psychological symptoms.
Doctors often describe schizophrenia as a type of psychosis. This means the person may not always be able to distinguish their own thoughts and ideas from reality.
Causes
The exact cause of schizophrenia is unknown. But most experts believe the condition is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
It’s thought that some people are more vulnerable to developing schizophrenia, and certain situations can trigger the condition, such as a stressful life event or drug misuse.
Symptoms of schizophrenia may vary depending on the individual and they usually include:
- Hallucinations – hearing or seeing things that do not exist outside of the mind.
- Delusions – unusual beliefs not based on reality.
- Muddled thoughts and speech based on hallucinations or delusions.
- Losing interest in everyday activities.
- Not wanting to look after yourself and your needs, such as not caring about your personal hygiene.
- Wanting to avoid people.
- Feeling disconnected from your feelings or emotions.