Schizophrenia

A mental illness known as schizophrenia is characterised by recurrent or ongoing psychotic episodes. Hallucinations (which generally involve hearing voices), delusions, and disordered thinking are among the main symptoms. Apathy, reduced emotional expressiveness, and social disengagement are further signs. Symptoms often start in early adulthood, come on gradually, and in many cases never go away. The diagnosis is based on observable behaviour, a history that includes the individual's stated experiences, and observations from those who are familiar with the person; there is no objective diagnostic test. Symptoms and functional impairment must be present for six months (DSM-5) or one month in order to be diagnosed with schizophrenia (ICD-11). In particular, drug use disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder are frequently present in patients with schizophrenia.