Schizophrenia is a chronic psychotic disorder characterised by disturbances in perception, thought processes, emotional responsiveness, and behaviour. According to international diagnostic systems such as the DSM-5-TR and ICD-11, the condition involves persistent symptoms that significantly impair social and occupational functioning. The disorder is marked by a combination of positive symptoms (excesses or distortions), negative symptoms (reductions in normal functioning), and cognitive deficits. Symptoms typically persist for at least six months, with at least one month of active-phase psychotic features.

Core Symptoms of Schizophrenia

1. Positive Symptoms (Presence of Abnormal Experiences)

These symptoms represent an excess or distortion of normal functioning.

•  Delusions: Fixed, false beliefs not based in reality (e.g., believing others are plotting against them).
•  Hallucinations: Perceiving things that are not present, most commonly hearing voices.
•  Disorganised Thinking: Difficulty organising thoughts, leading to incoherent or illogical speech.
•  Disorganised or Abnormal Behaviour: Unpredictable or inappropriate actions, agitation, or catatonia.

2. Negative Symptoms (Reduction of Normal Functions)

These symptoms often affect motivation, emotions, and social engagement.

•  Affective Flattening: Reduced emotional expression.
•  Avolition: Lack of motivation or initiative.
•  Alogia: Reduced speech output.
•  Anhedonia: Diminished ability to experience pleasure.
•  Asociality: Social withdrawal and isolation.

Negative symptoms are often mistaken for laziness or depression but are core features of
the disorder.

3. Cognitive Symptoms

These symptoms affect thinking, memory, and executive functioning.

•  Poor attention and concentration
•  Impaired memory
•  Difficulty in decision-making and problem-solving
•  Reduced processing speed
•  Challenges in planning and organising tasks

Cognitive deficits significantly impact academic and occupational functioning.
Early Warning Signs

Recognising early symptoms can facilitate prompt treatment. These may include:

•  Social withdrawal and isolation
•  Decline in academic or work performance
•  Suspiciousness or paranoia
•  Unusual beliefs or perceptual experiences
•  Emotional detachment
•  Neglect of personal hygiene
•  Sleep disturbances
•  Difficulty concentrating

Early intervention improves long-term outcomes.
When to Seek Professional Help

Consult a mental health professional if an individual experiences:

•  Persistent hallucinations or delusions
•  Confused or disorganised speech and behaviour
•  Social withdrawal and emotional detachment
•  Decline in academic or occupational functioning
•  Neglect of self-care and hygiene
•  Symptoms lasting for several weeks or longer

Immediate help should be sought if there is risk of harm to self or others