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| Meta Title | Schizophrenia | NHS inform |
| Meta Description | Schizophrenia is a long-term mental health condition often described as a psychotic illness. Learn about its symptoms and treatments. |
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| Boilerpipe Text | Schizophrenia is a serious mental health condition. It causes a range of different psychological symptoms.
Symptoms of schizophrenia
People experience symptoms of schizophrenia in different ways. They may start suddenly or develop slowly over time.
Symptoms of schizophrenia can include:
hallucinations – hearing voices or seeing things that other people can’t
delusions – unusual beliefs that are not based on reality that other people might find difficult to understand
muddled thoughts and speech
a lack of interest in things
not wanting to look after yourself
difficulty with day-to-day activities
wanting to avoid people
feeling disconnected from your emotions
worrying that other people may wish you harm
difficulty concentrating
feeling fearful or worried
Schizophrenia is often described as a
psychotic illness
. This means you may not be able to distinguish your own thoughts and ideas from reality.
You may have episodes of schizophrenia. This means symptoms can be severe followed by a period where you have few symptoms or none at all. About one third of people recover completely from schizophrenia after one episode.
How to get urgent mental health support
Support is available if you or someone you know is having a mental health crisis or emergency, no matter what you’re going through.
Find out where to get urgent mental health support
Speak to your GP practice if you have:
changes in your thoughts or behaviour that last a long time or impact your everyday life
been diagnosed with schizophrenia and treatments are not helping (or speak to your mental health specialist if you have one)
If you’re worried about someone else, encourage them to speak to their GP or phone 111 yourself for advice.
Diagnosing schizophrenia
If you’re experiencing symptoms of schizophrenia, speak to your GP practice as soon as possible. They’ll ask about your symptoms and check they’re not caused by something else.
Your GP will ask you questions and assess your symptoms further. They may refer you to a mental health specialist.
Conditions with similar symptoms
There are some conditions that have similar symptoms to schizophrenia. This includes:
bipolar disorder
schizoaffective disorder
some types of
personality disorder
It’s also possible to have an episode of
psychosis
without having schizophrenia.
This means it can be difficult to find a diagnosis to fit your specific experiences. It also means you may have more than one diagnosis at once.
Treatment for schizophrenia
Antipsychotic medication
is often used to treat schizophrenia.
Psychological treatments
might also be offered. This can help to reduce the impact that it has on your life.
Psychological treatments include:
cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) – aims to reduce the impact of voice hearing, unusual beliefs and fear on peoples lives
family therapy – informal meetings to help you and your family cope with your condition
arts therapy – work with an arts therapist to express your experiences with schizophrenia
Community mental health teams (CMHTs)
People with schizophrenia are usually treated by CMHTs. They work with your GP and are made up of different mental health professionals, including:
social workers
community mental health nurses
occupational therapists
community support workers
psychologists
psychiatrists
CMHTs provide day-to-day support and treatment. They also help to ensure you have as much independence as possible.
Dealing with an episode of schizophrenia
People with severe episodes of schizophrenia may need more care. For example, through a Crisis Resolution Team (CRT) or Intensive Home Treatment Team.
These teams aim to treat people outside of a hospital. They also plan care for when the crisis has passed.
Your healthcare team should provide you with contact information in case of a crisis.
In severe episodes of schizophrenia, you might need hospital care. If you refuse care, the
Mental Health (Scotland) Act 2015
could be used to ensure you get treatment.
Advance statements
You may want to write an advance statement if you’re at risk of a serious episode of schizophrenia. This records your preferences about your care. Your healthcare team must consider your preferences when giving you treatment.
If you want to make an advance statement, talk to your healthcare team.
What causes schizophrenia?
It’s not known exactly what causes schizophrenia. A combination of factors may make you more likely to develop the condition. This includes:
genetics
differences in brain structure and chemicals
complications in pregnancy or after birth
trauma, including sexual and emotional abuse and neglect
If you’re already vulnerable to schizophrenia, a psychotic episode can then be triggered by:
a stressful life event
drug use
It’s not known why some people develop symptoms while others don’t.
Support with schizophrenia
It can be helpful to talk to others about your condition. It’s a good way to share experiences and get support.
You can get support from organisations and local support groups like:
Change Mental Health
Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH)
Looking after your health
The chance of a severe relapse can be reduced if schizophrenia is well managed. There are some things that can help.
Do
try to have a regular rouine
get plenty of sleep
eat a healthy diet
exerxise regularly
avoid smoking
Don’t
do not take recreational drugs
do not drink too much alcohol
Living with schizophrenia
Even if you do not have a job or are unable to work, it’s still important to go out and do everyday things. This can give structure to your week.
An occupational therapist might be able to support you to establish a daily routine.
In some places, community facilities offer a range of activities to help you get active again and spend time with other people. Speak to your healthcare professional about what options might be available to you.
Work projects may also be an option to help develop your work skills and support you back into work. For example, read about
SAMH’s individual placement and support services
.
Some people with schizophrenia may be given supported accommodation. This means there will be someone around who’s trained to support you. They can also help you deal with day-to-day problems.
Schizophrenia warning signs
The warning signs that you’re becoming unwell will be different for everyone.
It could include:
feeling anxious or stressed
poor sleep
hearing quiet voices
finding it hard to concentrate
avoiding people
feeling suspicious or fearful
If you notice warning signs, ask for help.
Living with or caring for a friend or family member
Living with or caring for someone with schizophrenia can have a big positive impact on their recovery. But, the person’s behaviour may change and relationships can feel the strain.
You may find it helpful to talk to a support group. You can also contact a psychologist and ask for family therapy, if needed.
Change Mental Health can help you get the
mental health support
you need.
SAMH have further information and support on
being there for someone
. |
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[Home](https://www.nhsinform.scot/) [Illnesses and conditions](https://www.nhsinform.scot/?post_type=illnesses) [Mental health](https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health/) Schizophrenia
# Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a serious mental health condition. It causes a range of different psychological symptoms.
## Symptoms of schizophrenia
People experience symptoms of schizophrenia in different ways. They may start suddenly or develop slowly over time.
Symptoms of schizophrenia can include:
- hallucinations – hearing voices or seeing things that other people can’t
- delusions – unusual beliefs that are not based on reality that other people might find difficult to understand
- muddled thoughts and speech
- a lack of interest in things
- not wanting to look after yourself
- difficulty with day-to-day activities
- wanting to avoid people
- feeling disconnected from your emotions
- worrying that other people may wish you harm
- difficulty concentrating
- feeling fearful or worried
Schizophrenia is often described as a [psychotic illness](https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health/psychosis/). This means you may not be able to distinguish your own thoughts and ideas from reality.
You may have episodes of schizophrenia. This means symptoms can be severe followed by a period where you have few symptoms or none at all. About one third of people recover completely from schizophrenia after one episode.
## How to get urgent mental health support
Support is available if you or someone you know is having a mental health crisis or emergency, no matter what you’re going through.
[Find out where to get urgent mental health support](https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health/mental-health-support/get-urgent-mental-health-help/)
### Speak to your GP practice if you have:
- changes in your thoughts or behaviour that last a long time or impact your everyday life
- been diagnosed with schizophrenia and treatments are not helping (or speak to your mental health specialist if you have one)
If you’re worried about someone else, encourage them to speak to their GP or phone 111 yourself for advice.
## Diagnosing schizophrenia
If you’re experiencing symptoms of schizophrenia, speak to your GP practice as soon as possible. They’ll ask about your symptoms and check they’re not caused by something else.
Your GP will ask you questions and assess your symptoms further. They may refer you to a mental health specialist.
### Conditions with similar symptoms
There are some conditions that have similar symptoms to schizophrenia. This includes:
- [bipolar disorder](https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health/bipolar-disorder/)
- schizoaffective disorder
- some types of [personality disorder](https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health/personality-disorder/)
It’s also possible to have an episode of [psychosis](https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health/psychosis/) without having schizophrenia.
This means it can be difficult to find a diagnosis to fit your specific experiences. It also means you may have more than one diagnosis at once.
## Treatment for schizophrenia
[Antipsychotic medication](https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mental-health/treatments-and-wellbeing/antipsychotics) is often used to treat schizophrenia. [Psychological treatments](https://www.nhsinform.scot/tests-and-treatments/counselling-and-therapies/what-is-psychological-therapy) might also be offered. This can help to reduce the impact that it has on your life.
Psychological treatments include:
- cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) – aims to reduce the impact of voice hearing, unusual beliefs and fear on peoples lives
- family therapy – informal meetings to help you and your family cope with your condition
- arts therapy – work with an arts therapist to express your experiences with schizophrenia
### Community mental health teams (CMHTs)
People with schizophrenia are usually treated by CMHTs. They work with your GP and are made up of different mental health professionals, including:
- social workers
- community mental health nurses
- occupational therapists
- community support workers
- psychologists
- psychiatrists
CMHTs provide day-to-day support and treatment. They also help to ensure you have as much independence as possible.
## Dealing with an episode of schizophrenia
People with severe episodes of schizophrenia may need more care. For example, through a Crisis Resolution Team (CRT) or Intensive Home Treatment Team.
These teams aim to treat people outside of a hospital. They also plan care for when the crisis has passed.
Your healthcare team should provide you with contact information in case of a crisis.
In severe episodes of schizophrenia, you might need hospital care. If you refuse care, the [Mental Health (Scotland) Act 2015](https://www.mwcscot.org.uk/law-and-rights/mental-health-act) could be used to ensure you get treatment.
### Advance statements
You may want to write an advance statement if you’re at risk of a serious episode of schizophrenia. This records your preferences about your care. Your healthcare team must consider your preferences when giving you treatment.
If you want to make an advance statement, talk to your healthcare team.
## What causes schizophrenia?
It’s not known exactly what causes schizophrenia. A combination of factors may make you more likely to develop the condition. This includes:
- genetics
- differences in brain structure and chemicals
- complications in pregnancy or after birth
- trauma, including sexual and emotional abuse and neglect
If you’re already vulnerable to schizophrenia, a psychotic episode can then be triggered by:
- a stressful life event
- drug use
It’s not known why some people develop symptoms while others don’t.
## Support with schizophrenia
It can be helpful to talk to others about your condition. It’s a good way to share experiences and get support.
You can get support from organisations and local support groups like:
- [Change Mental Health](https://changemh.org/advice-and-support/)
- [Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH)](https://www.samh.org.uk/find-help)
## Looking after your health
The chance of a severe relapse can be reduced if schizophrenia is well managed. There are some things that can help.
### Do
- try to have a regular rouine
- get plenty of sleep
- eat a healthy diet
- exerxise regularly
- avoid smoking
### Don’t
- do not take recreational drugs
- do not drink too much alcohol
## Living with schizophrenia
Even if you do not have a job or are unable to work, it’s still important to go out and do everyday things. This can give structure to your week.
An occupational therapist might be able to support you to establish a daily routine.
In some places, community facilities offer a range of activities to help you get active again and spend time with other people. Speak to your healthcare professional about what options might be available to you.
Work projects may also be an option to help develop your work skills and support you back into work. For example, read about [SAMH’s individual placement and support services](https://www.samh.org.uk/about-us/our-work/individual-placement-and-support-ips-services2).
Some people with schizophrenia may be given supported accommodation. This means there will be someone around who’s trained to support you. They can also help you deal with day-to-day problems.
## Schizophrenia warning signs
The warning signs that you’re becoming unwell will be different for everyone.
It could include:
- feeling anxious or stressed
- poor sleep
- hearing quiet voices
- finding it hard to concentrate
- avoiding people
- feeling suspicious or fearful
If you notice warning signs, ask for help.
## Living with or caring for a friend or family member
Living with or caring for someone with schizophrenia can have a big positive impact on their recovery. But, the person’s behaviour may change and relationships can feel the strain.
You may find it helpful to talk to a support group. You can also contact a psychologist and ask for family therapy, if needed.
Change Mental Health can help you get the [mental health support](https://changemh.org/need-support/) you need.
SAMH have further information and support on [being there for someone](https://www.samh.org.uk/about-mental-health/being-there-for-someone).
***

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17 December 2025
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| Readable Markdown | Schizophrenia is a serious mental health condition. It causes a range of different psychological symptoms.
## Symptoms of schizophrenia
People experience symptoms of schizophrenia in different ways. They may start suddenly or develop slowly over time.
Symptoms of schizophrenia can include:
- hallucinations – hearing voices or seeing things that other people can’t
- delusions – unusual beliefs that are not based on reality that other people might find difficult to understand
- muddled thoughts and speech
- a lack of interest in things
- not wanting to look after yourself
- difficulty with day-to-day activities
- wanting to avoid people
- feeling disconnected from your emotions
- worrying that other people may wish you harm
- difficulty concentrating
- feeling fearful or worried
Schizophrenia is often described as a [psychotic illness](https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health/psychosis/). This means you may not be able to distinguish your own thoughts and ideas from reality.
You may have episodes of schizophrenia. This means symptoms can be severe followed by a period where you have few symptoms or none at all. About one third of people recover completely from schizophrenia after one episode.
## How to get urgent mental health support
Support is available if you or someone you know is having a mental health crisis or emergency, no matter what you’re going through.
[Find out where to get urgent mental health support](https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health/mental-health-support/get-urgent-mental-health-help/)
### Speak to your GP practice if you have:
- changes in your thoughts or behaviour that last a long time or impact your everyday life
- been diagnosed with schizophrenia and treatments are not helping (or speak to your mental health specialist if you have one)
If you’re worried about someone else, encourage them to speak to their GP or phone 111 yourself for advice.
## Diagnosing schizophrenia
If you’re experiencing symptoms of schizophrenia, speak to your GP practice as soon as possible. They’ll ask about your symptoms and check they’re not caused by something else.
Your GP will ask you questions and assess your symptoms further. They may refer you to a mental health specialist.
### Conditions with similar symptoms
There are some conditions that have similar symptoms to schizophrenia. This includes:
- [bipolar disorder](https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health/bipolar-disorder/)
- schizoaffective disorder
- some types of [personality disorder](https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health/personality-disorder/)
It’s also possible to have an episode of [psychosis](https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health/psychosis/) without having schizophrenia.
This means it can be difficult to find a diagnosis to fit your specific experiences. It also means you may have more than one diagnosis at once.
## Treatment for schizophrenia
[Antipsychotic medication](https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mental-health/treatments-and-wellbeing/antipsychotics) is often used to treat schizophrenia. [Psychological treatments](https://www.nhsinform.scot/tests-and-treatments/counselling-and-therapies/what-is-psychological-therapy) might also be offered. This can help to reduce the impact that it has on your life.
Psychological treatments include:
- cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) – aims to reduce the impact of voice hearing, unusual beliefs and fear on peoples lives
- family therapy – informal meetings to help you and your family cope with your condition
- arts therapy – work with an arts therapist to express your experiences with schizophrenia
### Community mental health teams (CMHTs)
People with schizophrenia are usually treated by CMHTs. They work with your GP and are made up of different mental health professionals, including:
- social workers
- community mental health nurses
- occupational therapists
- community support workers
- psychologists
- psychiatrists
CMHTs provide day-to-day support and treatment. They also help to ensure you have as much independence as possible.
## Dealing with an episode of schizophrenia
People with severe episodes of schizophrenia may need more care. For example, through a Crisis Resolution Team (CRT) or Intensive Home Treatment Team.
These teams aim to treat people outside of a hospital. They also plan care for when the crisis has passed.
Your healthcare team should provide you with contact information in case of a crisis.
In severe episodes of schizophrenia, you might need hospital care. If you refuse care, the [Mental Health (Scotland) Act 2015](https://www.mwcscot.org.uk/law-and-rights/mental-health-act) could be used to ensure you get treatment.
### Advance statements
You may want to write an advance statement if you’re at risk of a serious episode of schizophrenia. This records your preferences about your care. Your healthcare team must consider your preferences when giving you treatment.
If you want to make an advance statement, talk to your healthcare team.
## What causes schizophrenia?
It’s not known exactly what causes schizophrenia. A combination of factors may make you more likely to develop the condition. This includes:
- genetics
- differences in brain structure and chemicals
- complications in pregnancy or after birth
- trauma, including sexual and emotional abuse and neglect
If you’re already vulnerable to schizophrenia, a psychotic episode can then be triggered by:
- a stressful life event
- drug use
It’s not known why some people develop symptoms while others don’t.
## Support with schizophrenia
It can be helpful to talk to others about your condition. It’s a good way to share experiences and get support.
You can get support from organisations and local support groups like:
- [Change Mental Health](https://changemh.org/advice-and-support/)
- [Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH)](https://www.samh.org.uk/find-help)
## Looking after your health
The chance of a severe relapse can be reduced if schizophrenia is well managed. There are some things that can help.
### Do
- try to have a regular rouine
- get plenty of sleep
- eat a healthy diet
- exerxise regularly
- avoid smoking
### Don’t
- do not take recreational drugs
- do not drink too much alcohol
## Living with schizophrenia
Even if you do not have a job or are unable to work, it’s still important to go out and do everyday things. This can give structure to your week.
An occupational therapist might be able to support you to establish a daily routine.
In some places, community facilities offer a range of activities to help you get active again and spend time with other people. Speak to your healthcare professional about what options might be available to you.
Work projects may also be an option to help develop your work skills and support you back into work. For example, read about [SAMH’s individual placement and support services](https://www.samh.org.uk/about-us/our-work/individual-placement-and-support-ips-services2).
Some people with schizophrenia may be given supported accommodation. This means there will be someone around who’s trained to support you. They can also help you deal with day-to-day problems.
## Schizophrenia warning signs
The warning signs that you’re becoming unwell will be different for everyone.
It could include:
- feeling anxious or stressed
- poor sleep
- hearing quiet voices
- finding it hard to concentrate
- avoiding people
- feeling suspicious or fearful
If you notice warning signs, ask for help.
## Living with or caring for a friend or family member
Living with or caring for someone with schizophrenia can have a big positive impact on their recovery. But, the person’s behaviour may change and relationships can feel the strain.
You may find it helpful to talk to a support group. You can also contact a psychologist and ask for family therapy, if needed.
Change Mental Health can help you get the [mental health support](https://changemh.org/need-support/) you need.
SAMH have further information and support on [being there for someone](https://www.samh.org.uk/about-mental-health/being-there-for-someone). |
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