Schizophrenia is a chronic neurological disorder impacting about 2.8 million US adults, typically emerging in late adolescence or early adulthood. It is marked by delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking, and emotional and cognitive disturbances. Symptoms are categorized as positive (eg, hallucinations), negative (eg, emotional flatness), and cognitive (eg, memory issues). Diagnosing schizophrenia involves ruling out other psychiatric or medical conditions, as there are no definitive biological tests. Early and accurate diagnosis is vital, as early intervention can help reduce relapses and improve long-term outcomes. Schizophrenia is highly treatable with a combination of antipsychotic medications and psychosocial therapies, including coordinated specialty care that emphasizes early treatment and support for education or employment.

Despite available treatments, the disorder remains a major public health concern due to its high rates of relapse, disability, and early mortality. Roughly 10% to 13% of patients with schizophrenia die by suicide—the leading cause of premature death in this population. Other contributing factors include increased risk of accidents, chronic diseases, and challenges accessing timely medical care. Homelessness also compounds these risks. Research has evolved to explore not only genetics and neurotransmitters but also immune and inflammatory contributors to the disease, expanding potential avenues for future treatments and improving our understanding of this complex condition.

Reference: Treatment Advocacy Center. Schizophrenia Fact Sheet. TAC. Accessed April 24, 2025. https://www.tac.org/reports_publications/schizophrenia-fact-sheet/