Schizophrenia: symptoms, treatment and recovery
सिज़ोफ्रेनिया
Schizophrenia is a brain disorder that affects thinking, perception, emotions and behaviour. It usually begins in late teens or the twenties.
It is not caused by black magic, spirits or bad parenting. With medicines, therapy and family support, many people study, work and live independently.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Common symptoms
- Hearing voices others do not hear (hallucinations)
- Fixed false beliefs — being followed, poisoned or controlled (delusions)
- Disorganised speech or behaviour
- Withdrawal, reduced speech, poor self-care, lack of motivation (negative symptoms)
- Decline in studies or work
Causes
- A combination of genetic vulnerability and changes in brain chemistry (dopamine and other systems)
- Factors during pregnancy and birth, and stress in adolescence
Risk factors
- Schizophrenia in a close relative
- Heavy cannabis use in teenage years
- Migration, social adversity and childhood trauma
How it is diagnosed
- Symptoms present for about a month or more (ICD-11), based on interview with patient and family
- Excluding medical causes: thyroid, infections, epilepsy, drugs; brain scan when indicated
- Baseline weight, sugar and lipid tests before starting antipsychotics
Classification: ICD-10 F20 · ICD-11 6A20
Treatment options
- 1Antipsychotic medicines — the foundation of treatment; long-acting monthly injections are an option
- 2Regular follow-up and monitoring for side-effects
- 3Rehabilitation: daily routine, skills, return to studies or work
- 4Hospital care when there is risk to self or others
Psychotherapy and counselling
- CBT for psychosis to cope with voices and beliefs
- Family psychoeducation — proven to reduce relapse
- Social skills and vocational training
Guidance for family
- Stay calm and avoid arguing about the beliefs; acknowledge the person's fear or distress
- Help with regular medicines and follow-up visits
- Keep the home low in conflict and criticism — this reduces relapse
- Seek urgent help for aggression, refusing food, or talk of self-harm
When to see a psychiatrist
- New suspiciousness, hearing voices or strange behaviour
- Stopping medicines and early signs of relapse (poor sleep, withdrawal)
- Any risk of harm — emergency care
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Frequently asked questions
Is schizophrenia the same as split personality?
No. Schizophrenia affects perception and thinking; it is not "multiple personalities".
Will medicines be needed lifelong?
Many people need long-term treatment to prevent relapse. The duration is reviewed regularly with the doctor.
Can a person with schizophrenia marry and work?
Many do, especially when the illness is stable. Decisions should be open and well-informed.
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.