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Schizophrenia is a mental illness that affects how you think, feel, behave and understand reality. - People with schizophrenia may experience delusions and hallucinations. - It's thought to be caused by a mix of genetics, life experiences and brain chemistry. - The main treatment for schizophrenia is antipsychotic medicine. - With treatment, many people with schizophrenia can live meaningful lives. ## On this page - [What is schizophrenia?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#what-is) - [What are the symptoms of schizophrenia?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#symptoms) - [What causes schizophrenia?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#causes) - [When should I see my doctor?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#doctor) - [How is schizophrenia diagnosed?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#diagnosed) - [How is schizophrenia treated?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#treated) - [Living with schizophrenia](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#live-with) - [What are the complications of schizophrenia?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#complications) - [Can schizophrenia be prevented?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#prevented) - [Resources and support](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#resources) - [Related information on Australian websites](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#searchGeneralResults) ## What is schizophrenia? Schizophrenia is a long-term (chronic) and serious [mental illness](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-illness) that affects how you: - think - feel - behave - understand reality People with schizophrenia may struggle with daily life, work and social activities. Schizophrenia is the most common [psychotic disorder](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/psychosis) in Australia. It usually starts in the [late teenage years or early adulthood](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/life-stages). It is more common in males than females. ## What are the symptoms of schizophrenia? Schizophrenia has a wide range of symptoms, including symptoms of psychosis. [Psychosis](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/psychosis) is a condition where a person loses touch with reality. Symptoms are grouped into 3 main types. ### Positive symptoms These are changes in thoughts or behaviours, such as: - [delusions](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/delusions) — strong beliefs that aren't true or based on reality - [hallucinations](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/hallucination) — seeing or hearing things that aren't there - unusual movements — such as repeated actions or staying still for a long time (catatonia) ### Negative symptoms Negative symptoms mean a person loses behaviours or emotions that most people have. These may include: - showing less emotion — having a blank face or a dull voice - lack of [motivation](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/motivation-how-to-get-started-and-staying-motivated) — not wanting to do daily activities - [less interest](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/losing-interest) in things that used to be enjoyable - avoiding people and social situations ### Cognitive symptoms These affect thinking and daily life, including: - disorganised speech and thinking — talking in a way that jumps between topics or is hard to understand - trouble focusing or paying attention - [forgetting](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/worried-about-your-memory) things more easily [**CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS** — Use the **Symptom Checker** and find out if you need to seek medical help.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/symptom-checker) ## What causes schizophrenia? The exact cause of schizophrenia is unknown. It is believed to be caused by a mix of [genetics](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/guide-to-genetic-disorders), life experiences and brain chemistry. - Genetics — having a close family member with schizophrenia may increase your risk. - Life experiences such as pregnancy complications, infections, high [stress](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/stress), [childhood trauma](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/child-abuse) or [social isolation](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/loneliness-isolation-mental-health) may play a role. - Brain chemistry — imbalances in brain chemicals, such as [dopamine](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dopamine), [serotonin](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/serotonin) and glutamate are linked to psychosis and thinking difficulties. [Drugs](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/drugs-and-alcohol), such as [marijuana](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/marijuana), [LSD](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/lsd-acid) or [speed](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/speed) can make psychotic symptoms worse in people with schizophrenia. Sometimes, [drug use](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/substance-abuse) may trigger schizophrenia. ## When should I see my doctor? **If you, or someone you know, is in immediate danger of hurting themselves or others, call triple zero (000).** See your doctor or [mental health professional](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-professionals) if you think you or someone you know may have schizophrenia. Seek urgent help if you or someone you know: - hears voices or sees things that aren't there - talks in a way that doesn't make sense - acts in a very unusual or confused way [**ASK YOUR DOCTOR** — Preparing for an appointment? Use the **Question Builder** for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/question-builder) ## How is schizophrenia diagnosed? Your [doctor or mental health professional](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/talking-to-your-doctor-gp-about-mental-health) may diagnose schizophrenia through a mental health assessment. To be diagnosed, you must have at least 2 or more of the following symptoms for at least one month: - delusions - hallucinations - disorganised speech - unusual movements - negative symptoms At least one of the symptoms must be delusions, hallucinations or disorganised speech. The symptoms must also: - make it hard for you to work, interact with other people or take care of yourself - continue for at least six months (including the one month period) - not be caused by [substance abuse](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/substance-abuse) or another [mental illness](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-illness) A [psychiatrist](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/psychiatrists-and-psychologists) usually confirms the diagnosis and advises on the best treatment. [**FIND A HEALTH SERVICE** — The **Service Finder** can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/australian-health-services) ## How is schizophrenia treated? Schizophrenia has no cure, but treatment can manage symptoms and improve daily life. Early and regular treatment is important to prevent relapses. ### Medicines Medicine is the main treatment for schizophrenia. [Antipsychotic medicines](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/antipsychotic-medicines) can reduce symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions. Some people develop [side effects to medicine](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicine-and-side-effects). This is why you should have regular check-ups with your psychiatrist or doctor. ### Therapy and support Psychological therapy can help people understand and manage their symptoms and learn new ways of coping. Options may include: - [cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT)](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/cognitive-behaviour-therapy-cbt) — teaches ways to challenge delusions and cope with symptoms - psychoeducation — teaches social skills to help with communication and daily activities - [family therapy](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/counsellors-and-counselling) — helps loved ones understand schizophrenia and provide support - employment and education support — helps people return to work or study ### Hospital and crisis treatment Some people may need short-term hospital care if they: - are at risk of [harming themselves](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/self-harm) or others - have severe hallucinations or delusions - cannot take care of themselves ## Living with schizophrenia Living with schizophrenia can be challenging and is different for everyone. The right [support](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-where-to-get-help) can help you manage your condition. Having family, friends and health professionals for support makes a big difference. A safe and stable home is important, especially during times when symptoms get worse. ### Community services Some people [need help](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/social-workers) with daily tasks, such as cooking, cleaning or managing money. Community services can provide support. People with schizophrenia have a higher risk of homelessness. Some may need special housing with care staff who assist with daily needs and medicines. ### Lifestyle [Lifestyle changes](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/healthy-lifestyle) can help you feel better. Try to: - [eat healthy](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/healthy-eating) - [stay active](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fitness-and-exercise) - avoid [drugs](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/overcoming-addiction) and [alcohol](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/blog/how-can-sober-curiosity-help-you-to-reduce-or-stop-drinking) ## What are the complications of schizophrenia? **If you, or someone you know, is having suicidal thoughts and is in immediate danger, call triple zero (000). For help and support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.** Schizophrenia can affect daily life and may lead to: - difficulty keeping a job or completing education - [social withdrawal](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/blog/why-its-important-to-overcome-loneliness) and [relationship problems](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/building-and-maintaining-healthy-relationships) - higher risk of [substance abuse](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/substance-abuse), [anxiety](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/anxiety) and [depression](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/depression) - higher rates of homelessness and [financial problems](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/financial-support-during-long-term-illness) - higher risk of [suicide](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/warning-signs-of-suicide) ## Can schizophrenia be prevented? Schizophrenia cannot always be prevented, but you can lower the risk if you: - [take care of your mental health](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/good-mental-health) - [manage stress](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/relaxation-techniques-for-stress-relief) - avoid using drugs - [get help early](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/australian-mental-health-services) if you notice unusual thoughts or behaviours ## Resources and support [Your doctor](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/talking-to-your-doctor-gp-about-mental-health) can [refer](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/what-is-a-referral) you to a public [mental health service](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-professionals) or a private [psychiatrist, psychologist](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/psychiatrists-and-psychologists) or private hospital. Read more on the costs of [mental health services](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/understanding-the-costs-of-mental-health-services). There is a wide range of services available to help people who live with schizophrenia and their family or carers: - [SANE](https://www.sane.org/information-and-resources/facts-and-guides/schizophrenia) offers information about schizophrenia. - [Head to Health](https://www.medicarementalhealth.gov.au/) — for advice and to get connected to local mental health services, call 1800 595 212. - [Headspace](https://headspace.org.au/) offers a variety of tools and resources to help support young people. Chat privately with counsellors over the [phone or webchat](https://headspace.org.au/online-and-phone-support/connect-with-us/) about your mental health. **For urgent help, call [Lifeline](https://www.lifeline.org.au/131114/) on [13 11 14](tel:131114) or [Suicide Call Back Service](https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/) on [1300 659 467](tel:1300659467).** You can also call the healthdirect helpline on [1800 022 222](tel:1800022222) (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. ### Other languages - [Embrace Multicultural Mental Health](https://embracementalhealth.org.au/) offers mental health resources and personal stories translated into more than 30 languages. - [Call the Telephone Interpreting Service (TIS)](https://www.tisnational.gov.au/) on 131 450 and ask the interpreter to call [Lifeline](https://www.lifeline.org.au/) on 13 11 14 for crisis support. ### Looking for information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people? - [Crisis Support](https://www.13yarn.org.au/) for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders — provides a confidential, culturally safe space to yarn about your worries or concerns. - [Yarn Safe by headspace](https://headspace.org.au/yarn-safe/) (for people aged 12 to 25 years) — chat online. #### Sources: Pharmacy and Therapeutics *[(Schizophrenia: Overview and Treatment Options (Patel KR, et al.))](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4159061/ "Schizophrenia: Overview and Treatment Options (Patel KR, et al.)")*, Therapeutic Guidelines *[(Schizophrenia)](https://app.tg.org.au/viewTopic?etgAccess=true&guidelinePage=Psychotropic&topicfile=schizophrenia&guidelinename=Psychotropic&sectionId=toc_d1e529#toc_d1e529 "Schizophrenia")*, Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry *[(Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists clinical practice guidelines for the management of schizophrenia and related disorders (Galletly C, et al.))](https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0004867416641195?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori:rid:crossref.org&rfr_dat=cr_pub%20%200pubmed "Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists clinical practice guidelines for the management of schizophrenia and related disorders (Galletly C, et al.)")*, John Murtagh's General Practice, 8th Edition *[(Chapter 69: The disturbed patient (Murtagh J, et al. ))](https://murtagh.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?sectionid=262302145&bookid=3133#262302276 "Chapter 69: The disturbed patient (Murtagh J, et al. )")* Learn more here about the [development and quality assurance of healthdirect content](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/about-our-content). Last reviewed: February 2025 [Back To Top](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#backToTop) ## Search our site for - [Psychosis](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/search-results/Psychosis "Search results for: Psychosis") - [Antipsychotics](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/search-results/Antipsychotics "Search results for: Antipsychotics") - [Delusions](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/search-results/Delusions "Search results for: Delusions") - [Paranoia](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/search-results/Paranoia "Search results for: Paranoia") - [Hallucinations](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/search-results/Hallucinations "Search results for: Hallucinations") ## Need more information? These trusted information partners have more on this topic. General search results Results for medical professionals Top results [Schizophrenia Schizophrenia impacts a person's thoughts, feelings, perceptions and behaviour. Learn more about symptoms, causes, and treatment options. *Read more on SANE Australia website* ](https://www.sane.org/information-and-resources/facts-and-guides/schizophrenia) [Schizophrenia and Sleep \| Sleep Health Foundation This is a fact sheet about Schizophrenia and Sleep. Many individuals with schizophrenia can experience sleep disturbances which can include insomnia, hypersomnia and irregular sleep-wake patterns. *Read more on Sleep Health Foundation website* ](https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-topics/schizophrenia-and-sleep) [Schizophrenia and psychotic disorders \| Medicare Mental Health A psychotic disorder involves a disconnection from reality. People with severe forms of psychosis can live fulfilling lives, but may require different levels of support. *Read more on Medicare Mental Health website* ](https://www.medicarementalhealth.gov.au/finding-help/schizophrenia-and-psychotic-disorders) [Schizophrenia - Finding North Schizophrenia is medical condition that affects the normal functioning of the brain, interfering with a person’s ability to think, feel and act. *Read more on Finding North website* ](https://findingnorth.org.au/mental-health-wellness/mental-health/mental-health-conditions/schizophrenia/) [Common questions about schizoaffective disorder - The SANE Blog Your questions about schizoaffective disorder answered. *Read more on SANE Australia website* ](https://www.sane.org/information-and-resources/the-sane-blog/mental-illness/common-questions-about-schizoaffective-disorder) Show more Top results [Schizophrenia Explained Schizophrenia is a severe and chronic mental illness. It is marked by disturbances in thought, perception and behaviour. Schizophrenia is characterised by psychosis resulting in distortion in thinking, emotions, language, sense of self and behaviour. *Read more on Ausmed Education website* ](https://www.ausmed.com/learn/articles/schizophrenia) [Physical health monitoring for people with schizophrenia - Australian Prescriber People with schizophrenia face excess morbidity and mortality, associated with common modifiable health conditions, compared with the general population. So, how can primary care practitioners enhance physical health monitoring and preventive strategies for people with schizophrenia? *Read more on Australian Prescriber website* ](https://australianprescriber.tg.org.au/articles/physical-health-monitoring-for-people-with-schizophrenia.html) [Twenty-four hour care for schizophrenia \| Cochrane *Read more on Cochrane Australia website* ](https://www.cochrane.org/CD004409/SCHIZ_twenty-four-hour-care-for-schizophrenia) [Training to recognise the early signs of recurrence in schizophrenia \| Cochrane *Read more on Cochrane Australia website* ](https://www.cochrane.org/CD005147/SCHIZ_training-to-recognise-the-early-signs-of-recurrence-in-schizophrenia) [Are there any effective interventions to help individuals with schizophrenia to quit or to reduce smoking? \| Cochrane *Read more on Cochrane Australia website* ](https://www.cochrane.org/evidence/CD007253_are-there-any-effective-interventions-help-individuals-schizophrenia-quit-or-reduce-smoking) Show more ## Disclaimer Healthdirect Australia is not responsible for the content and advertising on the external website you are now entering. 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## Key facts - Schizophrenia is a mental illness that affects how you think, feel, behave and understand reality. - People with schizophrenia may experience delusions and hallucinations. - It's thought to be caused by a mix of genetics, life experiences and brain chemistry. - The main treatment for schizophrenia is antipsychotic medicine. - With treatment, many people with schizophrenia can live meaningful lives. ## On this page - [What is schizophrenia?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#what-is) - [What are the symptoms of schizophrenia?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#symptoms) - [What causes schizophrenia?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#causes) - [When should I see my doctor?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#doctor) - [How is schizophrenia diagnosed?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#diagnosed) - [How is schizophrenia treated?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#treated) - [Living with schizophrenia](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#live-with) - [What are the complications of schizophrenia?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#complications) - [Can schizophrenia be prevented?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#prevented) - [Resources and support](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#resources) - [Related information on Australian websites](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/schizophrenia#searchGeneralResults) ## What is schizophrenia? Schizophrenia is a long-term (chronic) and serious [mental illness](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-illness) that affects how you: - think - feel - behave - understand reality People with schizophrenia may struggle with daily life, work and social activities. Schizophrenia is the most common [psychotic disorder](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/psychosis) in Australia. It usually starts in the [late teenage years or early adulthood](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/life-stages). It is more common in males than females. ## What are the symptoms of schizophrenia? Schizophrenia has a wide range of symptoms, including symptoms of psychosis. [Psychosis](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/psychosis) is a condition where a person loses touch with reality. Symptoms are grouped into 3 main types. ### Positive symptoms These are changes in thoughts or behaviours, such as: - [delusions](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/delusions) — strong beliefs that aren't true or based on reality - [hallucinations](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/hallucination) — seeing or hearing things that aren't there - unusual movements — such as repeated actions or staying still for a long time (catatonia) ### Negative symptoms Negative symptoms mean a person loses behaviours or emotions that most people have. These may include: - showing less emotion — having a blank face or a dull voice - lack of [motivation](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/motivation-how-to-get-started-and-staying-motivated) — not wanting to do daily activities - [less interest](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/losing-interest) in things that used to be enjoyable - avoiding people and social situations ### Cognitive symptoms These affect thinking and daily life, including: - disorganised speech and thinking — talking in a way that jumps between topics or is hard to understand - trouble focusing or paying attention - [forgetting](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/worried-about-your-memory) things more easily [**CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS** — Use the **Symptom Checker** and find out if you need to seek medical help.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/symptom-checker) ## What causes schizophrenia? The exact cause of schizophrenia is unknown. It is believed to be caused by a mix of [genetics](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/guide-to-genetic-disorders), life experiences and brain chemistry. - Genetics — having a close family member with schizophrenia may increase your risk. - Life experiences such as pregnancy complications, infections, high [stress](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/stress), [childhood trauma](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/child-abuse) or [social isolation](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/loneliness-isolation-mental-health) may play a role. - Brain chemistry — imbalances in brain chemicals, such as [dopamine](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dopamine), [serotonin](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/serotonin) and glutamate are linked to psychosis and thinking difficulties. [Drugs](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/drugs-and-alcohol), such as [marijuana](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/marijuana), [LSD](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/lsd-acid) or [speed](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/speed) can make psychotic symptoms worse in people with schizophrenia. Sometimes, [drug use](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/substance-abuse) may trigger schizophrenia. ## When should I see my doctor? See your doctor or [mental health professional](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-professionals) if you think you or someone you know may have schizophrenia. Seek urgent help if you or someone you know: - hears voices or sees things that aren't there - talks in a way that doesn't make sense - acts in a very unusual or confused way [**ASK YOUR DOCTOR** — Preparing for an appointment? Use the **Question Builder** for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/question-builder) ## How is schizophrenia diagnosed? Your [doctor or mental health professional](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/talking-to-your-doctor-gp-about-mental-health) may diagnose schizophrenia through a mental health assessment. To be diagnosed, you must have at least 2 or more of the following symptoms for at least one month: - delusions - hallucinations - disorganised speech - unusual movements - negative symptoms At least one of the symptoms must be delusions, hallucinations or disorganised speech. The symptoms must also: - make it hard for you to work, interact with other people or take care of yourself - continue for at least six months (including the one month period) - not be caused by [substance abuse](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/substance-abuse) or another [mental illness](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-illness) A [psychiatrist](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/psychiatrists-and-psychologists) usually confirms the diagnosis and advises on the best treatment. [**FIND A HEALTH SERVICE** — The **Service Finder** can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/australian-health-services) ## How is schizophrenia treated? Schizophrenia has no cure, but treatment can manage symptoms and improve daily life. Early and regular treatment is important to prevent relapses. ### Medicines Medicine is the main treatment for schizophrenia. [Antipsychotic medicines](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/antipsychotic-medicines) can reduce symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions. Some people develop [side effects to medicine](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicine-and-side-effects). This is why you should have regular check-ups with your psychiatrist or doctor. ### Therapy and support Psychological therapy can help people understand and manage their symptoms and learn new ways of coping. Options may include: - [cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT)](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/cognitive-behaviour-therapy-cbt) — teaches ways to challenge delusions and cope with symptoms - psychoeducation — teaches social skills to help with communication and daily activities - [family therapy](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/counsellors-and-counselling) — helps loved ones understand schizophrenia and provide support - employment and education support — helps people return to work or study ### Hospital and crisis treatment Some people may need short-term hospital care if they: - are at risk of [harming themselves](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/self-harm) or others - have severe hallucinations or delusions - cannot take care of themselves ## Living with schizophrenia Living with schizophrenia can be challenging and is different for everyone. The right [support](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-where-to-get-help) can help you manage your condition. Having family, friends and health professionals for support makes a big difference. A safe and stable home is important, especially during times when symptoms get worse. ### Community services Some people [need help](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/social-workers) with daily tasks, such as cooking, cleaning or managing money. Community services can provide support. People with schizophrenia have a higher risk of homelessness. Some may need special housing with care staff who assist with daily needs and medicines. ### Lifestyle [Lifestyle changes](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/healthy-lifestyle) can help you feel better. Try to: - [eat healthy](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/healthy-eating) - [stay active](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fitness-and-exercise) - avoid [drugs](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/overcoming-addiction) and [alcohol](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/blog/how-can-sober-curiosity-help-you-to-reduce-or-stop-drinking) ## What are the complications of schizophrenia? Schizophrenia can affect daily life and may lead to: - difficulty keeping a job or completing education - [social withdrawal](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/blog/why-its-important-to-overcome-loneliness) and [relationship problems](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/building-and-maintaining-healthy-relationships) - higher risk of [substance abuse](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/substance-abuse), [anxiety](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/anxiety) and [depression](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/depression) - higher rates of homelessness and [financial problems](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/financial-support-during-long-term-illness) - higher risk of [suicide](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/warning-signs-of-suicide) ## Can schizophrenia be prevented? Schizophrenia cannot always be prevented, but you can lower the risk if you: - [take care of your mental health](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/good-mental-health) - [manage stress](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/relaxation-techniques-for-stress-relief) - avoid using drugs - [get help early](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/australian-mental-health-services) if you notice unusual thoughts or behaviours ## Resources and support [Your doctor](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/talking-to-your-doctor-gp-about-mental-health) can [refer](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/what-is-a-referral) you to a public [mental health service](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-professionals) or a private [psychiatrist, psychologist](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/psychiatrists-and-psychologists) or private hospital. Read more on the costs of [mental health services](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/understanding-the-costs-of-mental-health-services). There is a wide range of services available to help people who live with schizophrenia and their family or carers: - [SANE](https://www.sane.org/information-and-resources/facts-and-guides/schizophrenia) offers information about schizophrenia. - [Head to Health](https://www.medicarementalhealth.gov.au/) — for advice and to get connected to local mental health services, call 1800 595 212. - [Headspace](https://headspace.org.au/) offers a variety of tools and resources to help support young people. Chat privately with counsellors over the [phone or webchat](https://headspace.org.au/online-and-phone-support/connect-with-us/) about your mental health. **For urgent help, call [Lifeline](https://www.lifeline.org.au/131114/) on [13 11 14](tel:131114) or [Suicide Call Back Service](https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/) on [1300 659 467](tel:1300659467).** You can also call the healthdirect helpline on [1800 022 222](tel:1800022222) (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. ### Other languages - [Embrace Multicultural Mental Health](https://embracementalhealth.org.au/) offers mental health resources and personal stories translated into more than 30 languages. - [Call the Telephone Interpreting Service (TIS)](https://www.tisnational.gov.au/) on 131 450 and ask the interpreter to call [Lifeline](https://www.lifeline.org.au/) on 13 11 14 for crisis support. ### Looking for information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people? - [Crisis Support](https://www.13yarn.org.au/) for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders — provides a confidential, culturally safe space to yarn about your worries or concerns. - [Yarn Safe by headspace](https://headspace.org.au/yarn-safe/) (for people aged 12 to 25 years) — chat online.