What Is Schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a chronic mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and relates to the world. It typically emerges in late adolescence or early adulthood and can vary widely in its intensity and presentation.
Key symptoms include:
Positive Symptoms (added experiences)
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things others don’t)
- Delusions (strong beliefs not based in reality)
- Disorganized thinking or speech
- Paranoia or suspicion
Negative Symptoms (reduced functions)
- Lack of emotional expression
- Low motivation or energy
- Reduced ability to speak or engage
- Withdrawal from relationships
Cognitive Symptoms
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Difficulty remembering or organizing thoughts
- Struggling to tell what’s real and what’s not
These symptoms can come in episodes or exist as ongoing patterns. With time, many individuals can learn to manage symptoms and regain stability — especially with consistent, compassionate support.