Definition:

It is a psychosis which is characterized by hallucinations, delusions and lack of insight.

Symptoms of Schizophrenia:

Symptoms of schizophrenia are-

a) First-rank symptoms of acute schizophrenia-

1. Auditory hallucinations from second or third person
2. Thought insertion
3. Thought broadcasting
4. Thought withdrawal
5. Passively feelings, impulses or acts
6. Delusional perception.

b) Symptoms of chronic schizophrenia (negative symptoms)-

1. Apathy and loss of drive
2. Social withdrawal
3. Poverty of speech
4. Flatness of affect
5. Lack of self-care.

Treatment of schizophrenia:

1. Pharmacological treatment-

Antipsychotic agents, e.g. chlorpromazine, fluphenazine, haloperidol, trifluoperazine, flupentixol,
risperidone, olanzapine, clozapine etc

2. Psychological treatment-

i) Support for the patient and his or her family members
ii) Cognitive behavioral therapy
iii) Family education
iv) Family therapy.

3. Social and occupational rehabilitation –

i) Counseling to the relatives of the patient is also a part of treatment of schizophreniaii) Arrangement of long-term sheltered accommodation and sheltered employment (if needed).