🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 3 (from laksa115)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa003.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical, ml_categories_json AS ml_categories_json, ml_types_json AS ml_types_json, ml_intent_types_json AS ml_intent_types_json, meta_language AS meta_language, attrs_author AS attrs_author, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(attrs_publish_time), 0) AS attrs_publish_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(attrs_original_publish_time), 0) AS attrs_original_publish_time, ifNull(attrs_is_republished, 0) AS attrs_is_republished, ifNull(attrs_nr_words, 0) AS attrs_nr_words, ifNull(attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words, 0) AS attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words, ifNull(body_ext_links_number, 0) AS body_ext_links_number, ifNull(body_int_links_number, 0) AS body_int_links_number, ifNull(meta_nofollow, 0) AS meta_nofollow, ifNull(meta_noarchive, 0) AS meta_noarchive, ifNull(props_was_rendered, 0) AS props_was_rendered, ifNull(src_redirect, \'\') AS src_redirect, ifNull(download_time_msec, 0) AS download_time_msec, ifNull(download_ttfb_msec, 0) AS download_ttfb_msec, ifNull(download_size, 0) AS download_size FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/","crawl_time":1775689670,"first_indexed_time":1656531413,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,talkspace!www,\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/ s443","src_root_hash":"16013952968183817603","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Signs & Symptoms of Schizophrenia — Talkspace","meta_descriptions":["Knowing the signs and symptoms of schizophrenia is crucial so you or a loved one can get early treatment. Read on to learn about schizophrenia symptoms."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Table of Contents:\nOverview\nConditions Under the Schizophrenia Spectrum\nSigns of Schizophrenia\nSymptoms of Schizophrenia\nManaging Symptoms of Schizophrenia\nWhen to Seek a Professional\nOur Editorial Standards\nReviewed for Accuracy\nUp-to-date Research\nCredible References\nUpdated On: August 20, 2025\nOverview\nIf you’ve ever wondered:\n \nwhat are the symptoms of schizophrenia\n, you should understand that many of the signs are easy to recognize, but that’s not always the case. This is why it’s so important to know how to identify signs of\n \nschizophrenia\n, especially if you’re concerned that you or a loved one might be living with this mental health condition that affects less than an\n \nestimated 1%\n \nof the population in the United States.\nSchizophrenia refers to a condition and spectrum of complex brain disorders that can affect how someone thinks, feels, and acts. The sooner schizophrenia is diagnosed, the more quickly you can learn to manage it. Early intervention is essential for the best long-term outcomes of schizophrenia management.\nConditions Under the Schizophrenia Spectrum\nAlongside the different types of schizophrenia, there are conditions that fall under the schizophrenia spectrum. The\n \nAmerican Psychiatric Association’s\n \nDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition\n, or the\n \nDSM-5\n \nclassifies these as disorders in the schizophrenia spectrum:\nSchizophrenia\nSchizotypal personality disorder\nDelusional disorder\nBrief psychotic disorder\nSchizophreniform disorder\nSchizoaffective disorder\nCatatonia\nOther schizophrenia spectrum disorders\nPeople with schizophrenia usually first exhibit schizophrenic symptoms in their late teens to early 20s. It’s rare for very young children or people older than age 40 to be diagnosed with the disorder or first see their symptoms at those ages.\nOnline therapy for Schizophrenia\nGet a mental health evaluation and support for managing your schizophrenia symptoms with a licensed therapist.\n“Schizophrenia is a disorder that’s been characterized with extreme traits. While this could be true, the signs of schizophrenia and the severity of these signs can vary from person to person. Many can struggle with auditory\/visual hallucinations, delusions, and confused thoughts. It’s important to note that not all of these signs may be present. Oftentimes, it could be a small change in behavior and thoughts.”\nSigns of schizophrenia\n \ninclude:\nHallucinations\nDelusions\nGrandiose ideas\nBecoming overly excited for no reason\nMemory problems\nLack of emotional expression\nConfused thoughts and disorganized thinking\nExtreme changes in thoughts and behavior\nNegative symptoms like withdrawal and isolation — this includes withdrawing from friends, family, and activities that were once enjoyable\nSymptoms of Schizophrenia\nMental health professionals categorize symptoms of schizophrenia into two arenas — positive and negative symptoms.\nPositive symptoms\nPositive schizophrenic symptoms are loosely defined as changes in thoughts or behaviors. These are new thoughts, like suddenly believing that people on television are listening to what you’re thinking, that the FBI is out to get you, or that someone is following you.\nHallucinations\nHallucinations can be either visual (seeing things that aren’t there), auditory (hearing voices that aren’t real), or both. For someone with psychosis from schizophrenia, hallucinations seem very real. They often have difficulty telling them apart from actual experiences. Understandably, hallucinations can be frightening and disorienting for the person experiencing them.\nDelusions\nDelusions (false beliefs that aren’t based in any sort of reality) are when someone with psychosis from schizophrenia believes things that aren’t real are actually happening. For example, some delusions include believing they’re an important political figure, that a movie star they haven’t met is in love with them, or that a major catastrophe is about to occur.\nThey can also include things like paranoid delusions, where someone believes their private thoughts are being broadcasted, someone is spying on them, someone is out to get them, or there are special messages specifically for them in ordinary items. Delusions can begin suddenly, or they can gradually develop over weeks or months.\nConfused thoughts and disorganized thinking\nA type of cognitive symptom, schizophrenia can cause what people describe as confused thoughts, like a haze being cast over their thinking. They might even believe that someone is stealing their thoughts. A sign of this positive symptom is being unable to follow the plot of a television show or the main point of a newspaper article.\nBehavior and thought changes\nPeople with schizophrenia often have confused, disorganized speech. This means that when they talk, they don’t make much or any sense. In addition, they may behave in bizarre or unusual ways, like making sudden faces, striking unnatural poses, or becoming very silly or extremely agitated for no reason.\nNegative symptoms\nNegative symptoms, unlike positive symptoms, are actions and thoughts that\n \nshould\n \nbe present but aren’t. For example, seeming withdrawn rather than engaged, having no interest in social surroundings, or looking “flat” or emotionless. If you’re wondering\n \nwhat are the symptoms of schizophrenia\n, these are a few of the negative things you want to be aware of.\nWithdraw from the world\nA common schizophrenia negative symptom is social withdrawal, where someone stops engaging with friends and family and seems to find little pleasure in activities they once enjoyed. They may begin spending the entire day in bed, start avoiding eye contact with others, or suddenly neglect personal hygiene.\nLose interest in everyday social interactions\nPeople with negative schizophrenia symptoms might have little interest in social gatherings. Their attempt to avoid engaging in the world around them can go so far that they might even stop answering the telephone or the door.\nAppear emotionless\nA common negative symptom of schizophrenia is the absence of outward emotion. People with schizophrenia are often described as having a blank face with no expression. The term “flat” is used, as they might speak in a monotone voice and may not express much, if any, emotions (like laughing or crying). They also may not make any attempt to carry on a conversation.\nManaging Symptoms of Schizophrenia\nIt’s important to note that schizophrenia isn’t “curable,” and exact schizophrenia causes are largely unknown. It\n \nis\n, however, very treatable, and most people can successfully manage their condition and go on to live very rewarding, fulfilling lives. That said, learning to cope with schizophrenia is a lifelong endeavor.\nSeveral types of treatment are available to help people better manage the symptoms of schizophrenia. The most commonly used techniques are psychotherapy and medication. In addition to those, support and self-help tools can also be essential components of any successful treatment plan.\n“Medication management is important in effectively treating schizophrenia, along with talk therapy. Most individuals with schizophrenia can manage a healthy lifestyle with a good combination of medication and therapy. Learning coping skills and maintaining a healthy lifestyle that works for the individual is important. For some more extreme cases, inpatient care may be necessary.”\nPsychotherapy\n, also called talk therapy, teaches people with schizophrenia ways to deal with their symptoms and better engage with the outside world. Therapy for schizophrenia can also be useful in helping manage stress, which is a common trigger for schizophrenia symptoms.\nTalk therapy for schizophrenia is usually done in one-on-one sessions with a therapist, however, sometimes, regarding how to help someone with schizophrenia, family members or close friends will join to learn how they can better support a loved one. When it comes to treatment for schizophrenia without medication, either in-person or\n \nonline therapy\n \nis the way to go.\nMedication\n \nis often used in conjunction with psychotherapy. Common\n \nmedications to treat schizophrenia\n \ninclude 2 classes of drugs — older generations of antipsychotic\ns\n \ndrugs (known as typical antipsychotics) and the newer versions, which are referred to as atypical antipsychotics. No one medication will be right for everyone, though, so patience will be key in finding the most effective treatment plan.\nAtypical antipsychotic medication will generally be tried first, as these newer medications can have less severe side effects and often be more effective at treating psychotic symptoms. However, in cases when they’re not working, typical antipsychotics can also be tried.\nTypical antipsychotics:\nHaldol (Haloperidol)\nLoxitane (Loxapine)\nNavane (Thiothixene)\nProlixin (Fluphenazine)\nThorazine (Chlorpromazine)\nTrilafon (Perphenazine)\nStelazine (Trifluoperazine)\nAtypical antipsychotics:\nAbilify (Aripiprazole)\nFanapt (Iloperidone)\nGeodon (Ziprasidone)\nInvega (Paliperidone)\nLatuda (Lurasidone)\nRisperdal (Risperidone)\nRexulti (Brexpiprazole)\nSaphris (Asenapine)\nSeroquel (Quetiapine)\nVraylar (Cariprazine)\nZyprexa (Olanzapine)\nA common issue with treating schizophrenia is difficulty ensuring someone continues to take their medication consistently. Many times, when they start feeling better, people will discontinue their meds, believing they no longer need them. Most of the time, though, this results in the return of symptoms, sometimes with a vengeance.\nSelf-help techniques\n \nand\n \nself care\n \nis often recommended in schizophrenia treatment plans. Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, working out, and doing things like meditating and journaling can all be beneficial, both mentally and physically.\nWhen to Seek a Professional\nIt’s important to seek professional help when you first notice signs of schizophrenia, either in yourself or in someone you care about.\nEarly treatment vastly increases the chances for someone with schizophrenia to improve and have a better quality of life. Sometimes people with schizophrenia are unaware of their condition. In these cases, it can fall on a family member or close friend to help them find schizophrenia treatment.\nA primary care physician can connect you with a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist who has experience in treating schizophrenia successfully. The most important thing to remember is that this\n \nis\n \na treatable condition, and you deserve to get the help that’s out there. Don’t wait — reach out to find guidance and support in managing symptoms of schizophrenia.\nSee References\nWhat is Schizophrenia?\nTorres, M.D., MBA, DFAPA F. American Psychiatric Association. Published 2020. Accessed May 16, 2022.\nMinkyung Chung, MS, LMHC\nMinkyung Chung has over 10 years of experience and specializes in multicultural issues, specifically issues unique to the Asian American population. She enjoys working within the Asian American community to help reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health services and normalize the process of it. Her passion for this topic has led her to focus her research efforts in examining how to help the Asian American community.","attrs_markdown":"[![Mental Health Conditions](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/04\/Wordmark.svg)](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions)\n\n- [Therapy](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/)\n  - [Starting therapy](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/starting-therapy\/)\n  - [Therapy types & techniques](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/therapy-types-techniques\/)\n    - [Couples therapy](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/relationships\/)\n    - [Grief therapy](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/grief\/)\n    - [Therapy for teens](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/teens\/)\n  - [All therapy topics](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/therapy\/)\n- [Psychiatry & medications](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/)\n  - [Starting psychiatry](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/starting-psychiatry\/)\n  - [All psychiatry articles](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/psychiatry\/)\n  - [Common medications](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/)\n  - [Lexapro](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/lexapro\/)\n  - [Cymbalta (Duloxetine)](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/cymbalta\/)\n  - [Zoloft (Sertraline)](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/zoloft\/)\n  - [Lithium](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/lithium\/)\n  - [Propranolol](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/propranolol\/)\n  - [Prozac (Fluoxetine)](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/prozac\/)\n  - [All medications](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/medication\/)\n- [Mental health & wellness](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/)\n  - [Relationships](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/)\n  - [Dating](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/dating\/)\n  - [Marriage & divorce](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/marriage\/)\n  - [Family](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/family\/)\n  - [Parenting](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/parenting\/)\n  - [Friends](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/friends\/)\n  - [All relationships articles](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/relationships\/)\n  - [Coping](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/)\n  - [Stress](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/stress\/)\n  - [Grief](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/grief\/)\n  - [Anger](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/anger\/)\n  - [Trauma & abuse](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/trauma\/)\n  - [Loneliness](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/loneliness\/)\n  - [Bullying](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/bullying\/)\n  - [Sleep & insomnia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/sleep\/)\n  - [Phobias](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/phobias\/)\n  - [Growth](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/ \"column-3 title\")\n  - [Self esteem](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/self-esteem\/)\n  - [Happiness](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/happiness\/)\n  - [Self care](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/wellness\/)\n  - [Motivation](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/motivation\/)\n  - [Mindfulness](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/mindfulness\/)\n  - [Professional well-being](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/)\n  - [For clinicians](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/for-clinicians\/)\n  - [Career](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/career\/)\n  - [Stress in the workplace](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/research\/stress-in-the-workplace)\n  - [Psychology](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/)\n  - [Psychology advancements](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/psychology\/)\n  - [Identity & cultural communities](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/)\n  - [LGBTQIA+](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/lgbtq\/)\n  - [Race & identity](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/category\/diverse-communities\/)\n  - [View all articles](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/)\n- [Conditions library](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/)\n  - [Conditions](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/)\n  - [Depression](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/depression\/)\n  - [Anxiety](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/generalized-anxiety-disorder\/)\n  - [ADHD](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder\/)\n  - [Bipolar disorder](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/bipolar-disorder\/)\n  - [OCD](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/obsessive-compulsive-disorder\/)\n  - [PTSD](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/post-traumatic-stress-disorder\/)\n  - [Social anxiety](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/social-anxiety-disorder\/)\n  - [All conditions](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/#:~:text=V-,A,-Agoraphobia)\n  - [Take an online mental health assessment](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/assessments)\n- [Research](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/research)\n\n[Find a Therapist](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/#leadgen-pop)\n\n![](https:\/\/assets-global.website-files.com\/5f6b627361bad8cad0fc5c99\/6626fd9ba01a1902b1c2bd53_Wordmark-teal.svg)\n\n## Ready to get started?\n## Ready to get started?\nAdd your email to continue\n\nBy submitting your email, you agree to receive reminders and marketing communications.\n\n![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/0.gif) ![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/0.gif) ![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/0.gif)\n\n- [Mental Health Homepage](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/)\n- [Conditions Library](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions)\n- Signs & Symptoms of Schizophrenia\n\n- [Signs & Symptoms of Schizophrenia]()\n# Signs & Symptoms of Schizophrenia\n![Icon](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/icon-1.svg)\n\n[Overview](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/)\n\n![Icon](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/icon-2.svg)\n\n[Types of Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/types\/)\n\n![Icon](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/icon-3.svg)\n\n[Symptoms](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/)\n\n![Icon](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/icon-4.svg)\n\n[Causes](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/causes\/)\n\n![Icon](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/icon-5.svg)\n\n[Diagnosing](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/diagnosis\/)\n\n![Icon](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/icon-6.svg)\n\n[Treatment](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/how-to-treat\/)\n\n![Icon](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/icon-7.svg)\n\n[Therapy](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/therapy-treatment-types\/)\n\n![Icon](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/icon-8.svg)\n\n[Medications](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/medications\/)\n\n##### Table of Contents:\n- [Overview](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/#section-1)\n- [Conditions Under the Schizophrenia Spectrum](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/#section-2)\n- [Signs of Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/#section-3)\n- [Symptoms of Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/#section-5)\n- [Managing Symptoms of Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/#section-6)\n- [When to Seek a Professional](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/#section-8)\n\n## Our Editorial Standards\n![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/editorial-Icon-1-1.svg)\n\n##### Reviewed for Accuracy\n\n![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/editorial-Icon-3-1.svg)\n\n##### Up-to-date Research\n\n![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/editorial-Icon-2-1.svg)\n\n##### Credible References\n\n![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/minkyung-chung-headshot.png)\n\nWritten by:[Minkyung Chung, MS, LMHC](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/author\/minkyungchung\/)\n\nPublished On: June 27, 2022\n\n![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/04\/cynthia-v-catchings-headshot.jpg)\n\nMedically reviewed by: [Cynthia V. Catchings, LCSW-S](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/author\/cynthia-v-catchings\/)\n\nReviewed On: June 27, 2022\n\nUpdated On: August 20, 2025\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/Icon-edit.svg)Our Editorial Process](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/editorial-process\/)   [![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/Icon-tick.svg)Our Review Board](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/review-board\/%20)\n\n## Overview\nIf you’ve ever wondered: *what are the symptoms of schizophrenia*, you should understand that many of the signs are easy to recognize, but that’s not always the case. This is why it’s so important to know how to identify signs of [schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/), especially if you’re concerned that you or a loved one might be living with this mental health condition that affects less than an [estimated 1%](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/schizophrenia\/what-is-schizophrenia) of the population in the United States.\n\nSchizophrenia refers to a condition and spectrum of complex brain disorders that can affect how someone thinks, feels, and acts. The sooner schizophrenia is diagnosed, the more quickly you can learn to manage it. Early intervention is essential for the best long-term outcomes of schizophrenia management.\n\n## Conditions Under the Schizophrenia Spectrum\nAlongside the different types of schizophrenia, there are conditions that fall under the schizophrenia spectrum. The *American Psychiatric Association’s* *Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition*, or the *DSM-5* classifies these as disorders in the schizophrenia spectrum:\n\n- Schizophrenia\n- Schizotypal personality disorder\n- Delusional disorder\n- Brief psychotic disorder\n- Schizophreniform disorder\n- Schizoaffective disorder\n- Catatonia\n- Other schizophrenia spectrum disorders\n\n## Signs of Schizophrenia\nPeople with schizophrenia usually first exhibit schizophrenic symptoms in their late teens to early 20s. It’s rare for very young children or people older than age 40 to be diagnosed with the disorder or first see their symptoms at those ages.\n\n### Online therapy for Schizophrenia\nGet a mental health evaluation and support for managing your schizophrenia symptoms with a licensed therapist.\n\n[Get started](https:\/\/match.talkspace.com\/dispatcher)\n\n> #### “Schizophrenia is a disorder that’s been characterized with extreme traits. While this could be true, the signs of schizophrenia and the severity of these signs can vary from person to person. Many can struggle with auditory\/visual hallucinations, delusions, and confused thoughts. It’s important to note that not all of these signs may be present. Oftentimes, it could be a small change in behavior and thoughts.”\n> ![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/minkyung-chung-headshot.png)\n> \n> Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), MS [Minkyung Chung](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/author\/minkyungchung\/)\n\n**Signs of schizophrenia** **include:**\n\n- Hallucinations\n- Delusions\n- Grandiose ideas\n- Becoming overly excited for no reason\n- Memory problems\n- Lack of emotional expression\n- Confused thoughts and disorganized thinking\n- Extreme changes in thoughts and behavior\n- Negative symptoms like withdrawal and isolation — this includes withdrawing from friends, family, and activities that were once enjoyable\n\n## Symptoms of Schizophrenia\nMental health professionals categorize symptoms of schizophrenia into two arenas — positive and negative symptoms.\n\n### Positive symptoms\nPositive schizophrenic symptoms are loosely defined as changes in thoughts or behaviors. These are new thoughts, like suddenly believing that people on television are listening to what you’re thinking, that the FBI is out to get you, or that someone is following you.\n\n#### Hallucinations\nHallucinations can be either visual (seeing things that aren’t there), auditory (hearing voices that aren’t real), or both. For someone with psychosis from schizophrenia, hallucinations seem very real. They often have difficulty telling them apart from actual experiences. Understandably, hallucinations can be frightening and disorienting for the person experiencing them.\n\n#### Delusions\nDelusions (false beliefs that aren’t based in any sort of reality) are when someone with psychosis from schizophrenia believes things that aren’t real are actually happening. For example, some delusions include believing they’re an important political figure, that a movie star they haven’t met is in love with them, or that a major catastrophe is about to occur.\n\nThey can also include things like paranoid delusions, where someone believes their private thoughts are being broadcasted, someone is spying on them, someone is out to get them, or there are special messages specifically for them in ordinary items. Delusions can begin suddenly, or they can gradually develop over weeks or months.\n\n#### Confused thoughts and disorganized thinking\nA type of cognitive symptom, schizophrenia can cause what people describe as confused thoughts, like a haze being cast over their thinking. They might even believe that someone is stealing their thoughts. A sign of this positive symptom is being unable to follow the plot of a television show or the main point of a newspaper article.\n\n#### Behavior and thought changes\nPeople with schizophrenia often have confused, disorganized speech. This means that when they talk, they don’t make much or any sense. In addition, they may behave in bizarre or unusual ways, like making sudden faces, striking unnatural poses, or becoming very silly or extremely agitated for no reason.\n\n### Negative symptoms\nNegative symptoms, unlike positive symptoms, are actions and thoughts that *should* be present but aren’t. For example, seeming withdrawn rather than engaged, having no interest in social surroundings, or looking “flat” or emotionless. If you’re wondering *what are the symptoms of schizophrenia*, these are a few of the negative things you want to be aware of.\n\n#### Withdraw from the world\nA common schizophrenia negative symptom is social withdrawal, where someone stops engaging with friends and family and seems to find little pleasure in activities they once enjoyed. They may begin spending the entire day in bed, start avoiding eye contact with others, or suddenly neglect personal hygiene.\n\n#### Lose interest in everyday social interactions\nPeople with negative schizophrenia symptoms might have little interest in social gatherings. Their attempt to avoid engaging in the world around them can go so far that they might even stop answering the telephone or the door.\n\n#### Appear emotionless\nA common negative symptom of schizophrenia is the absence of outward emotion. People with schizophrenia are often described as having a blank face with no expression. The term “flat” is used, as they might speak in a monotone voice and may not express much, if any, emotions (like laughing or crying). They also may not make any attempt to carry on a conversation.\n\n## Managing Symptoms of Schizophrenia\nIt’s important to note that schizophrenia isn’t “curable,” and exact schizophrenia causes are largely unknown. It *is*, however, very treatable, and most people can successfully manage their condition and go on to live very rewarding, fulfilling lives. That said, learning to cope with schizophrenia is a lifelong endeavor.\n\nSeveral types of treatment are available to help people better manage the symptoms of schizophrenia. The most commonly used techniques are psychotherapy and medication. In addition to those, support and self-help tools can also be essential components of any successful treatment plan.\n\n> #### “Medication management is important in effectively treating schizophrenia, along with talk therapy. Most individuals with schizophrenia can manage a healthy lifestyle with a good combination of medication and therapy. Learning coping skills and maintaining a healthy lifestyle that works for the individual is important. For some more extreme cases, inpatient care may be necessary.”\n> ![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/minkyung-chung-headshot.png)\n> \n> Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), MS [Minkyung Chung](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/author\/minkyungchung\/)\n\n**Psychotherapy**, also called talk therapy, teaches people with schizophrenia ways to deal with their symptoms and better engage with the outside world. Therapy for schizophrenia can also be useful in helping manage stress, which is a common trigger for schizophrenia symptoms.\n\nTalk therapy for schizophrenia is usually done in one-on-one sessions with a therapist, however, sometimes, regarding how to help someone with schizophrenia, family members or close friends will join to learn how they can better support a loved one. When it comes to treatment for schizophrenia without medication, either in-person or [online therapy](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/online-therapy\/) is the way to go.\n\n**Medication** is often used in conjunction with psychotherapy. Common [medications to treat schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/medications\/) include 2 classes of drugs — older generations of antipsychotic~~s~~ drugs (known as typical antipsychotics) and the newer versions, which are referred to as atypical antipsychotics. No one medication will be right for everyone, though, so patience will be key in finding the most effective treatment plan.\n\nAtypical antipsychotic medication will generally be tried first, as these newer medications can have less severe side effects and often be more effective at treating psychotic symptoms. However, in cases when they’re not working, typical antipsychotics can also be tried.\n\n- **Typical antipsychotics:**\n  - Haldol (Haloperidol)\n  - Loxitane (Loxapine)\n  - Navane (Thiothixene)\n  - Prolixin (Fluphenazine)\n  - Thorazine (Chlorpromazine)\n  - Trilafon (Perphenazine)\n  - Stelazine (Trifluoperazine)\n- **Atypical antipsychotics:**\n  - [Abilify (Aripiprazole)](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/psychiatry\/medications\/abilify\/)\n  - Fanapt (Iloperidone)\n  - Geodon (Ziprasidone)\n  - Invega (Paliperidone)\n  - Latuda (Lurasidone)\n  - Risperdal (Risperidone)\n  - Rexulti (Brexpiprazole)\n  - Saphris (Asenapine)\n  - Seroquel (Quetiapine)\n  - Vraylar (Cariprazine)\n  - Zyprexa (Olanzapine)\n\nA common issue with treating schizophrenia is difficulty ensuring someone continues to take their medication consistently. Many times, when they start feeling better, people will discontinue their meds, believing they no longer need them. Most of the time, though, this results in the return of symptoms, sometimes with a vengeance.\n\n**Self-help techniques** and [self care](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/what-is-self-care\/) is often recommended in schizophrenia treatment plans. Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, working out, and doing things like meditating and journaling can all be beneficial, both mentally and physically.\n\n## When to Seek a Professional\nIt’s important to seek professional help when you first notice signs of schizophrenia, either in yourself or in someone you care about.\n\nEarly treatment vastly increases the chances for someone with schizophrenia to improve and have a better quality of life. Sometimes people with schizophrenia are unaware of their condition. In these cases, it can fall on a family member or close friend to help them find schizophrenia treatment.\n\nA primary care physician can connect you with a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist who has experience in treating schizophrenia successfully. The most important thing to remember is that this *is* a treatable condition, and you deserve to get the help that’s out there. Don’t wait — reach out to find guidance and support in managing symptoms of schizophrenia.\n\n### See References\n- ##### [What is Schizophrenia?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/schizophrenia\/what-is-schizophrenia)\n  Torres, M.D., MBA, DFAPA F. American Psychiatric Association. Published 2020. Accessed May 16, 2022.\n\n![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/minkyung-chung-headshot.png)\n\n[Minkyung Chung, MS, LMHC](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/author\/minkyungchung\/)\n\nMinkyung Chung has over 10 years of experience and specializes in multicultural issues, specifically issues unique to the Asian American population. She enjoys working within the Asian American community to help reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health services and normalize the process of it. Her passion for this topic has led her to focus her research efforts in examining how to help the Asian American community.\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/Icon-edit.svg)Our Editorial Process](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/editorial-process\/)   [![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/Icon-tick.svg)Our Review Board](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/review-board\/%20)\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/icon-share.svg) Share]()   [![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/icon-facebook.svg)](http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer.php?u=https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/)   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treatment\n![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/employers-phones-1.png) [Get Started](https:\/\/match.talkspace.com\/flow\/90\/step\/1)\n\n### Articles about Schizophrenia\n[View all articles]()\n\n![Featured Image](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/0.gif)\n\n**Schizophrenia**  June 18, 2024\n\n#### [Does Schizophrenia Get Worse with Age?](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/articles\/does-schizophrenia-get-worse-with-age\/)\n\n![Featured Image](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/0.gif)\n\n**Schizophrenia**  June 18, 2024\n\n#### [High-Functioning Schizophrenia: Diagnosis, Symptoms & Treatment](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/articles\/high-functioning-schizophrenia\/)\n\n![Featured Image](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/0.gif)\n\n**Schizophrenia**  June 18, 2024\n\n#### [Psychosis vs Schizophrenia: What’s the Difference?](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/articles\/psychosis-vs-schizophrenia\/)\n\n![Featured Image](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/0.gif)\n\n**Schizophrenia**  September 1, 2022\n\n#### [What is Residual Schizophrenia?](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/types\/residual-schizophrenia\/)\n\n![Featured Image](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/0.gif)\n\n**Schizophrenia**  August 31, 2022\n\n#### [Undifferentiated Schizophrenia: Definition, Symptoms, and Traits](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/types\/undifferentiated-schizophrenia\/)\n\n![Featured Image](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/0.gif)\n\n**Schizophrenia**  August 29, 2022\n\n#### [Paranoid Schizophrenia: Symptoms, Causes & Diagnosis](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/types\/paranoid-schizophrenia\/)\n\n![Featured Image](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/0.gif)\n\n**Schizophrenia**  August 24, 2022\n\n#### [Catatonic Schizophrenia: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/types\/catatonic-schizophrenia\/)\n\n![Featured Image](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/0.gif)\n\n**Schizophrenia**  August 18, 2022\n\n#### [Disorganized (Hebephrenic) Schizophrenia Defined](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/types\/hebephrenic-schizophrenia\/)\n\n![Featured Image](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/0.gif)\n\n**Schizophrenia**  July 14, 2022\n\n#### [Dating Someone with Schizophrenia: What to Expect](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/relationships-dating\/)\n\n![Featured Image](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/0.gif)\n\n**Schizophrenia**  June 29, 2022\n\n#### [Schizophrenia in Children & Teens](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/children-teens\/)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/0.gif)\n\n### Learn more about Schizophrenia\n- ![Icon](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/icon-2.svg)\n  ##### [Types of Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/types\/)\n- ![Icon](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/icon-3.svg)\n  ##### [Symptoms of Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/)\n- ![Icon](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/icon-4.svg)\n  ##### [Causes of Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/causes\/)\n- ![Icon](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/icon-5.svg)\n  ##### [Diagnosing of Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/diagnosis\/)\n- ![Icon](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/icon-6.svg)\n  ##### [Treatment for Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/how-to-treat\/)\n- ![Icon](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/icon-7.svg)\n  ##### [Therapy for Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/therapy-treatment-types\/)\n- ![Icon](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/icon-8.svg)\n  ##### [Medications for Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/medications\/)\n\n## Effective and affordable mental health treatment\n[Get 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[Careers](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/careers)\n- [Join our network](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/join-our-network)\n- [Press](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/press\/)\n- [Research](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/research)\n- [Investors](https:\/\/investors.talkspace.com\/investor-relations\/)\n- [Privacy policy](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/public\/privacy-policy)\n- [Privacy settings](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/)\n- [Terms of use](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/public\/terms)\n- [Accessibility](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/accessibility-statement)\n- [Customer support](https:\/\/help.talkspace.com\/hc\/en-us)\n- [Emergency resources](https:\/\/helpnow.talkspace.com\/)\n\nIf you are in a life threatening situation – don’t use this site. Call 988 or use [these resources](https:\/\/helpnow.talkspace.com\/) to get immediate help.\n\n[**Therapy may be free for you**](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/online-therapy\/?cta_source=conditions_promo_bar)","attrs_readable_markdown":"##### Table of Contents:\n- [Overview](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/#section-1)\n- [Conditions Under the Schizophrenia Spectrum](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/#section-2)\n- [Signs of Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/#section-3)\n- [Symptoms of Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/#section-5)\n- [Managing Symptoms of Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/#section-6)\n- [When to Seek a Professional](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/symptoms\/#section-8)\n\n## Our Editorial Standards\n![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/editorial-Icon-1-1.svg)\n\nReviewed for Accuracy\n\n![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/editorial-Icon-3-1.svg)\n\nUp-to-date Research\n\n![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/editorial-Icon-2-1.svg)\n\nCredible References\n\nUpdated On: August 20, 2025\n\n## Overview\nIf you’ve ever wondered: *what are the symptoms of schizophrenia*, you should understand that many of the signs are easy to recognize, but that’s not always the case. This is why it’s so important to know how to identify signs of [schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/), especially if you’re concerned that you or a loved one might be living with this mental health condition that affects less than an [estimated 1%](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/schizophrenia\/what-is-schizophrenia) of the population in the United States.\n\nSchizophrenia refers to a condition and spectrum of complex brain disorders that can affect how someone thinks, feels, and acts. The sooner schizophrenia is diagnosed, the more quickly you can learn to manage it. Early intervention is essential for the best long-term outcomes of schizophrenia management.\n\n## Conditions Under the Schizophrenia Spectrum\nAlongside the different types of schizophrenia, there are conditions that fall under the schizophrenia spectrum. The *American Psychiatric Association’s* *Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition*, or the *DSM-5* classifies these as disorders in the schizophrenia spectrum:\n\n- Schizophrenia\n- Schizotypal personality disorder\n- Delusional disorder\n- Brief psychotic disorder\n- Schizophreniform disorder\n- Schizoaffective disorder\n- Catatonia\n- Other schizophrenia spectrum disorders\n\nPeople with schizophrenia usually first exhibit schizophrenic symptoms in their late teens to early 20s. It’s rare for very young children or people older than age 40 to be diagnosed with the disorder or first see their symptoms at those ages.\n\n### Online therapy for Schizophrenia\nGet a mental health evaluation and support for managing your schizophrenia symptoms with a licensed therapist.\n\n> #### “Schizophrenia is a disorder that’s been characterized with extreme traits. While this could be true, the signs of schizophrenia and the severity of these signs can vary from person to person. Many can struggle with auditory\/visual hallucinations, delusions, and confused thoughts. It’s important to note that not all of these signs may be present. Oftentimes, it could be a small change in behavior and thoughts.”\n\n**Signs of schizophrenia** **include:**\n\n- Hallucinations\n- Delusions\n- Grandiose ideas\n- Becoming overly excited for no reason\n- Memory problems\n- Lack of emotional expression\n- Confused thoughts and disorganized thinking\n- Extreme changes in thoughts and behavior\n- Negative symptoms like withdrawal and isolation — this includes withdrawing from friends, family, and activities that were once enjoyable\n\n## Symptoms of Schizophrenia\nMental health professionals categorize symptoms of schizophrenia into two arenas — positive and negative symptoms.\n\n### Positive symptoms\nPositive schizophrenic symptoms are loosely defined as changes in thoughts or behaviors. These are new thoughts, like suddenly believing that people on television are listening to what you’re thinking, that the FBI is out to get you, or that someone is following you.\n\n#### Hallucinations\nHallucinations can be either visual (seeing things that aren’t there), auditory (hearing voices that aren’t real), or both. For someone with psychosis from schizophrenia, hallucinations seem very real. They often have difficulty telling them apart from actual experiences. Understandably, hallucinations can be frightening and disorienting for the person experiencing them.\n\n#### Delusions\nDelusions (false beliefs that aren’t based in any sort of reality) are when someone with psychosis from schizophrenia believes things that aren’t real are actually happening. For example, some delusions include believing they’re an important political figure, that a movie star they haven’t met is in love with them, or that a major catastrophe is about to occur.\n\nThey can also include things like paranoid delusions, where someone believes their private thoughts are being broadcasted, someone is spying on them, someone is out to get them, or there are special messages specifically for them in ordinary items. Delusions can begin suddenly, or they can gradually develop over weeks or months.\n\n#### Confused thoughts and disorganized thinking\nA type of cognitive symptom, schizophrenia can cause what people describe as confused thoughts, like a haze being cast over their thinking. They might even believe that someone is stealing their thoughts. A sign of this positive symptom is being unable to follow the plot of a television show or the main point of a newspaper article.\n\n#### Behavior and thought changes\nPeople with schizophrenia often have confused, disorganized speech. This means that when they talk, they don’t make much or any sense. In addition, they may behave in bizarre or unusual ways, like making sudden faces, striking unnatural poses, or becoming very silly or extremely agitated for no reason.\n\n### Negative symptoms\nNegative symptoms, unlike positive symptoms, are actions and thoughts that *should* be present but aren’t. For example, seeming withdrawn rather than engaged, having no interest in social surroundings, or looking “flat” or emotionless. If you’re wondering *what are the symptoms of schizophrenia*, these are a few of the negative things you want to be aware of.\n\n#### Withdraw from the world\nA common schizophrenia negative symptom is social withdrawal, where someone stops engaging with friends and family and seems to find little pleasure in activities they once enjoyed. They may begin spending the entire day in bed, start avoiding eye contact with others, or suddenly neglect personal hygiene.\n\n#### Lose interest in everyday social interactions\nPeople with negative schizophrenia symptoms might have little interest in social gatherings. Their attempt to avoid engaging in the world around them can go so far that they might even stop answering the telephone or the door.\n\n#### Appear emotionless\nA common negative symptom of schizophrenia is the absence of outward emotion. People with schizophrenia are often described as having a blank face with no expression. The term “flat” is used, as they might speak in a monotone voice and may not express much, if any, emotions (like laughing or crying). They also may not make any attempt to carry on a conversation.\n\n## Managing Symptoms of Schizophrenia\nIt’s important to note that schizophrenia isn’t “curable,” and exact schizophrenia causes are largely unknown. It *is*, however, very treatable, and most people can successfully manage their condition and go on to live very rewarding, fulfilling lives. That said, learning to cope with schizophrenia is a lifelong endeavor.\n\nSeveral types of treatment are available to help people better manage the symptoms of schizophrenia. The most commonly used techniques are psychotherapy and medication. In addition to those, support and self-help tools can also be essential components of any successful treatment plan.\n\n> #### “Medication management is important in effectively treating schizophrenia, along with talk therapy. Most individuals with schizophrenia can manage a healthy lifestyle with a good combination of medication and therapy. Learning coping skills and maintaining a healthy lifestyle that works for the individual is important. For some more extreme cases, inpatient care may be necessary.”\n\n**Psychotherapy**, also called talk therapy, teaches people with schizophrenia ways to deal with their symptoms and better engage with the outside world. Therapy for schizophrenia can also be useful in helping manage stress, which is a common trigger for schizophrenia symptoms.\n\nTalk therapy for schizophrenia is usually done in one-on-one sessions with a therapist, however, sometimes, regarding how to help someone with schizophrenia, family members or close friends will join to learn how they can better support a loved one. When it comes to treatment for schizophrenia without medication, either in-person or [online therapy](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/online-therapy\/) is the way to go.\n\n**Medication** is often used in conjunction with psychotherapy. Common [medications to treat schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/schizophrenia\/medications\/) include 2 classes of drugs — older generations of antipsychotic~~s~~ drugs (known as typical antipsychotics) and the newer versions, which are referred to as atypical antipsychotics. No one medication will be right for everyone, though, so patience will be key in finding the most effective treatment plan.\n\nAtypical antipsychotic medication will generally be tried first, as these newer medications can have less severe side effects and often be more effective at treating psychotic symptoms. However, in cases when they’re not working, typical antipsychotics can also be tried.\n\n- **Typical antipsychotics:**\n  - Haldol (Haloperidol)\n  - Loxitane (Loxapine)\n  - Navane (Thiothixene)\n  - Prolixin (Fluphenazine)\n  - Thorazine (Chlorpromazine)\n  - Trilafon (Perphenazine)\n  - Stelazine (Trifluoperazine)\n- **Atypical antipsychotics:**\n  - [Abilify (Aripiprazole)](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/psychiatry\/medications\/abilify\/)\n  - Fanapt (Iloperidone)\n  - Geodon (Ziprasidone)\n  - Invega (Paliperidone)\n  - Latuda (Lurasidone)\n  - Risperdal (Risperidone)\n  - Rexulti (Brexpiprazole)\n  - Saphris (Asenapine)\n  - Seroquel (Quetiapine)\n  - Vraylar (Cariprazine)\n  - Zyprexa (Olanzapine)\n\nA common issue with treating schizophrenia is difficulty ensuring someone continues to take their medication consistently. Many times, when they start feeling better, people will discontinue their meds, believing they no longer need them. Most of the time, though, this results in the return of symptoms, sometimes with a vengeance.\n\n**Self-help techniques** and [self care](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/blog\/what-is-self-care\/) is often recommended in schizophrenia treatment plans. Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, working out, and doing things like meditating and journaling can all be beneficial, both mentally and physically.\n\n## When to Seek a Professional\nIt’s important to seek professional help when you first notice signs of schizophrenia, either in yourself or in someone you care about.\n\nEarly treatment vastly increases the chances for someone with schizophrenia to improve and have a better quality of life. Sometimes people with schizophrenia are unaware of their condition. In these cases, it can fall on a family member or close friend to help them find schizophrenia treatment.\n\nA primary care physician can connect you with a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist who has experience in treating schizophrenia successfully. The most important thing to remember is that this *is* a treatable condition, and you deserve to get the help that’s out there. Don’t wait — reach out to find guidance and support in managing symptoms of schizophrenia.\n\n### See References\n- ##### [What is Schizophrenia?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/schizophrenia\/what-is-schizophrenia)\n  Torres, M.D., MBA, DFAPA F. American Psychiatric Association. Published 2020. Accessed May 16, 2022.\n\n![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/minkyung-chung-headshot.png)\n\n[Minkyung Chung, MS, LMHC](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/author\/minkyungchung\/)\n\nMinkyung Chung has over 10 years of experience and specializes in multicultural issues, specifically issues unique to the Asian American population. She enjoys working within the Asian American community to help reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health services and normalize the process of it. Her passion for this topic has led her to focus her research efforts in examining how to help the Asian American community.\n\n![](https:\/\/www.talkspace.com\/mental-health\/conditions\/wp-content\/themes\/talkspace-conditions\/assets\/images\/0.gif)","meta_canonical":null,"ml_categories_json":"{\"\/Health\":999,\"\/Health\/Mental_Health\":941,\"\/Health\/Mental_Health\/Other\":929}","ml_types_json":"{\"\/Article\":997,\"\/Article\/Definitions\":526}","ml_intent_types_json":"{\"Informational\":999,\"Commercial\":180}","meta_language":"en-us","attrs_author":null,"attrs_publish_time":1755700227,"attrs_original_publish_time":1656531413,"attrs_is_republished":1,"attrs_nr_words":"2146","attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words":"1657","body_ext_links_number":9,"body_int_links_number":113,"meta_nofollow":0,"meta_noarchive":0,"props_was_rendered":0,"src_redirect":"","download_time_msec":195,"download_ttfb_msec":194,"download_size":29110}

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Signs & Symptoms of Schizophrenia — Talkspace

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Knowing the signs and symptoms of schizophrenia is crucial so you or a loved one can get early treatment. Read on to learn about schizophrenia symptoms.

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Table of Contents: Overview Conditions Under the Schizophrenia Spectrum Signs of Schizophrenia Symptoms of Schizophrenia Managing Symptoms of Schizophrenia When to Seek a Professional Our Editorial Standards Reviewed for Accuracy Up-to-date Research Credible References Updated On: August 20, 2025 Overview If you’ve ever wondered: what are the symptoms of schizophrenia , you should understand that many of the signs are easy to recognize, but that’s not always the case. This is why it’s so important to know how to identify signs of schizophrenia , especially if you’re concerned that you or a loved one might be living with this mental health condition that affects less than an estimated 1% of the population in the United States. Schizophrenia refers to a condition and spectrum of complex brain disorders that can affect how someone thinks, feels, and acts. The sooner schizophrenia is diagnosed, the more quickly you can learn to manage it. Early intervention is essential for the best long-term outcomes of schizophrenia management. Conditions Under the Schizophrenia Spectrum Alongside the different types of schizophrenia, there are conditions that fall under the schizophrenia spectrum. The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition , or the DSM-5 classifies these as disorders in the schizophrenia spectrum: Schizophrenia Schizotypal personality disorder Delusional disorder Brief psychotic disorder Schizophreniform disorder Schizoaffective disorder Catatonia Other schizophrenia spectrum disorders People with schizophrenia usually first exhibit schizophrenic symptoms in their late teens to early 20s. It’s rare for very young children or people older than age 40 to be diagnosed with the disorder or first see their symptoms at those ages. Online therapy for Schizophrenia Get a mental health evaluation and support for managing your schizophrenia symptoms with a licensed therapist. “Schizophrenia is a disorder that’s been characterized with extreme traits. While this could be true, the signs of schizophrenia and the severity of these signs can vary from person to person. Many can struggle with auditory/visual hallucinations, delusions, and confused thoughts. It’s important to note that not all of these signs may be present. Oftentimes, it could be a small change in behavior and thoughts.” Signs of schizophrenia include: Hallucinations Delusions Grandiose ideas Becoming overly excited for no reason Memory problems Lack of emotional expression Confused thoughts and disorganized thinking Extreme changes in thoughts and behavior Negative symptoms like withdrawal and isolation — this includes withdrawing from friends, family, and activities that were once enjoyable Symptoms of Schizophrenia Mental health professionals categorize symptoms of schizophrenia into two arenas — positive and negative symptoms. Positive symptoms Positive schizophrenic symptoms are loosely defined as changes in thoughts or behaviors. These are new thoughts, like suddenly believing that people on television are listening to what you’re thinking, that the FBI is out to get you, or that someone is following you. Hallucinations Hallucinations can be either visual (seeing things that aren’t there), auditory (hearing voices that aren’t real), or both. For someone with psychosis from schizophrenia, hallucinations seem very real. They often have difficulty telling them apart from actual experiences. Understandably, hallucinations can be frightening and disorienting for the person experiencing them. Delusions Delusions (false beliefs that aren’t based in any sort of reality) are when someone with psychosis from schizophrenia believes things that aren’t real are actually happening. For example, some delusions include believing they’re an important political figure, that a movie star they haven’t met is in love with them, or that a major catastrophe is about to occur. They can also include things like paranoid delusions, where someone believes their private thoughts are being broadcasted, someone is spying on them, someone is out to get them, or there are special messages specifically for them in ordinary items. Delusions can begin suddenly, or they can gradually develop over weeks or months. Confused thoughts and disorganized thinking A type of cognitive symptom, schizophrenia can cause what people describe as confused thoughts, like a haze being cast over their thinking. They might even believe that someone is stealing their thoughts. A sign of this positive symptom is being unable to follow the plot of a television show or the main point of a newspaper article. Behavior and thought changes People with schizophrenia often have confused, disorganized speech. This means that when they talk, they don’t make much or any sense. In addition, they may behave in bizarre or unusual ways, like making sudden faces, striking unnatural poses, or becoming very silly or extremely agitated for no reason. Negative symptoms Negative symptoms, unlike positive symptoms, are actions and thoughts that should be present but aren’t. For example, seeming withdrawn rather than engaged, having no interest in social surroundings, or looking “flat” or emotionless. If you’re wondering what are the symptoms of schizophrenia , these are a few of the negative things you want to be aware of. Withdraw from the world A common schizophrenia negative symptom is social withdrawal, where someone stops engaging with friends and family and seems to find little pleasure in activities they once enjoyed. They may begin spending the entire day in bed, start avoiding eye contact with others, or suddenly neglect personal hygiene. Lose interest in everyday social interactions People with negative schizophrenia symptoms might have little interest in social gatherings. Their attempt to avoid engaging in the world around them can go so far that they might even stop answering the telephone or the door. Appear emotionless A common negative symptom of schizophrenia is the absence of outward emotion. People with schizophrenia are often described as having a blank face with no expression. The term “flat” is used, as they might speak in a monotone voice and may not express much, if any, emotions (like laughing or crying). They also may not make any attempt to carry on a conversation. Managing Symptoms of Schizophrenia It’s important to note that schizophrenia isn’t “curable,” and exact schizophrenia causes are largely unknown. It is , however, very treatable, and most people can successfully manage their condition and go on to live very rewarding, fulfilling lives. That said, learning to cope with schizophrenia is a lifelong endeavor. Several types of treatment are available to help people better manage the symptoms of schizophrenia. The most commonly used techniques are psychotherapy and medication. In addition to those, support and self-help tools can also be essential components of any successful treatment plan. “Medication management is important in effectively treating schizophrenia, along with talk therapy. Most individuals with schizophrenia can manage a healthy lifestyle with a good combination of medication and therapy. Learning coping skills and maintaining a healthy lifestyle that works for the individual is important. For some more extreme cases, inpatient care may be necessary.” Psychotherapy , also called talk therapy, teaches people with schizophrenia ways to deal with their symptoms and better engage with the outside world. Therapy for schizophrenia can also be useful in helping manage stress, which is a common trigger for schizophrenia symptoms. Talk therapy for schizophrenia is usually done in one-on-one sessions with a therapist, however, sometimes, regarding how to help someone with schizophrenia, family members or close friends will join to learn how they can better support a loved one. When it comes to treatment for schizophrenia without medication, either in-person or online therapy is the way to go. Medication is often used in conjunction with psychotherapy. Common medications to treat schizophrenia include 2 classes of drugs — older generations of antipsychotic s drugs (known as typical antipsychotics) and the newer versions, which are referred to as atypical antipsychotics. No one medication will be right for everyone, though, so patience will be key in finding the most effective treatment plan. Atypical antipsychotic medication will generally be tried first, as these newer medications can have less severe side effects and often be more effective at treating psychotic symptoms. However, in cases when they’re not working, typical antipsychotics can also be tried. Typical antipsychotics: Haldol (Haloperidol) Loxitane (Loxapine) Navane (Thiothixene) Prolixin (Fluphenazine) Thorazine (Chlorpromazine) Trilafon (Perphenazine) Stelazine (Trifluoperazine) Atypical antipsychotics: Abilify (Aripiprazole) Fanapt (Iloperidone) Geodon (Ziprasidone) Invega (Paliperidone) Latuda (Lurasidone) Risperdal (Risperidone) Rexulti (Brexpiprazole) Saphris (Asenapine) Seroquel (Quetiapine) Vraylar (Cariprazine) Zyprexa (Olanzapine) A common issue with treating schizophrenia is difficulty ensuring someone continues to take their medication consistently. Many times, when they start feeling better, people will discontinue their meds, believing they no longer need them. Most of the time, though, this results in the return of symptoms, sometimes with a vengeance. Self-help techniques and self care is often recommended in schizophrenia treatment plans. Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, working out, and doing things like meditating and journaling can all be beneficial, both mentally and physically. When to Seek a Professional It’s important to seek professional help when you first notice signs of schizophrenia, either in yourself or in someone you care about. Early treatment vastly increases the chances for someone with schizophrenia to improve and have a better quality of life. Sometimes people with schizophrenia are unaware of their condition. In these cases, it can fall on a family member or close friend to help them find schizophrenia treatment. A primary care physician can connect you with a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist who has experience in treating schizophrenia successfully. The most important thing to remember is that this is a treatable condition, and you deserve to get the help that’s out there. Don’t wait — reach out to find guidance and support in managing symptoms of schizophrenia. See References What is Schizophrenia? Torres, M.D., MBA, DFAPA F. American Psychiatric Association. Published 2020. Accessed May 16, 2022. Minkyung Chung, MS, LMHC Minkyung Chung has over 10 years of experience and specializes in multicultural issues, specifically issues unique to the Asian American population. She enjoys working within the Asian American community to help reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health services and normalize the process of it. Her passion for this topic has led her to focus her research efforts in examining how to help the Asian American community.

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Add your email to continue By submitting your email, you agree to receive reminders and marketing communications. ![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/0.gif) ![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/0.gif) ![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/0.gif) - [Mental Health Homepage](https://www.talkspace.com/) - [Conditions Library](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions) - Signs & Symptoms of Schizophrenia - [Signs & Symptoms of Schizophrenia]() # Signs & Symptoms of Schizophrenia ![Icon](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/icon-1.svg) [Overview](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/) ![Icon](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/icon-2.svg) [Types of Schizophrenia](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/types/) ![Icon](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/icon-3.svg) [Symptoms](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms/) ![Icon](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/icon-4.svg) [Causes](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/causes/) ![Icon](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/icon-5.svg) [Diagnosing](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/diagnosis/) ![Icon](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/icon-6.svg) [Treatment](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/how-to-treat/) ![Icon](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/icon-7.svg) [Therapy](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/therapy-treatment-types/) ![Icon](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/icon-8.svg) [Medications](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/medications/) ##### Table of Contents: - [Overview](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms/#section-1) - [Conditions Under the Schizophrenia Spectrum](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms/#section-2) - [Signs of Schizophrenia](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms/#section-3) - [Symptoms of Schizophrenia](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms/#section-5) - [Managing Symptoms of Schizophrenia](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms/#section-6) - [When to Seek a Professional](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms/#section-8) ## Our Editorial Standards ![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/editorial-Icon-1-1.svg) ##### Reviewed for Accuracy ![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/editorial-Icon-3-1.svg) ##### Up-to-date Research ![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/editorial-Icon-2-1.svg) ##### Credible References ![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/minkyung-chung-headshot.png) Written by:[Minkyung Chung, MS, LMHC](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/author/minkyungchung/) Published On: June 27, 2022 ![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2021/04/cynthia-v-catchings-headshot.jpg) Medically reviewed by: [Cynthia V. Catchings, LCSW-S](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/author/cynthia-v-catchings/) Reviewed On: June 27, 2022 Updated On: August 20, 2025 [![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/Icon-edit.svg)Our Editorial Process](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/editorial-process/) [![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/Icon-tick.svg)Our Review Board](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/review-board/%20) ## Overview If you’ve ever wondered: *what are the symptoms of schizophrenia*, you should understand that many of the signs are easy to recognize, but that’s not always the case. This is why it’s so important to know how to identify signs of [schizophrenia](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/), especially if you’re concerned that you or a loved one might be living with this mental health condition that affects less than an [estimated 1%](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/schizophrenia/what-is-schizophrenia) of the population in the United States. Schizophrenia refers to a condition and spectrum of complex brain disorders that can affect how someone thinks, feels, and acts. The sooner schizophrenia is diagnosed, the more quickly you can learn to manage it. Early intervention is essential for the best long-term outcomes of schizophrenia management. ## Conditions Under the Schizophrenia Spectrum Alongside the different types of schizophrenia, there are conditions that fall under the schizophrenia spectrum. The *American Psychiatric Association’s* *Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition*, or the *DSM-5* classifies these as disorders in the schizophrenia spectrum: - Schizophrenia - Schizotypal personality disorder - Delusional disorder - Brief psychotic disorder - Schizophreniform disorder - Schizoaffective disorder - Catatonia - Other schizophrenia spectrum disorders ## Signs of Schizophrenia People with schizophrenia usually first exhibit schizophrenic symptoms in their late teens to early 20s. It’s rare for very young children or people older than age 40 to be diagnosed with the disorder or first see their symptoms at those ages. ### Online therapy for Schizophrenia Get a mental health evaluation and support for managing your schizophrenia symptoms with a licensed therapist. [Get started](https://match.talkspace.com/dispatcher) > #### “Schizophrenia is a disorder that’s been characterized with extreme traits. While this could be true, the signs of schizophrenia and the severity of these signs can vary from person to person. Many can struggle with auditory/visual hallucinations, delusions, and confused thoughts. It’s important to note that not all of these signs may be present. Oftentimes, it could be a small change in behavior and thoughts.” > ![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/minkyung-chung-headshot.png) > > Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), MS [Minkyung Chung](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/author/minkyungchung/) **Signs of schizophrenia** **include:** - Hallucinations - Delusions - Grandiose ideas - Becoming overly excited for no reason - Memory problems - Lack of emotional expression - Confused thoughts and disorganized thinking - Extreme changes in thoughts and behavior - Negative symptoms like withdrawal and isolation — this includes withdrawing from friends, family, and activities that were once enjoyable ## Symptoms of Schizophrenia Mental health professionals categorize symptoms of schizophrenia into two arenas — positive and negative symptoms. ### Positive symptoms Positive schizophrenic symptoms are loosely defined as changes in thoughts or behaviors. These are new thoughts, like suddenly believing that people on television are listening to what you’re thinking, that the FBI is out to get you, or that someone is following you. #### Hallucinations Hallucinations can be either visual (seeing things that aren’t there), auditory (hearing voices that aren’t real), or both. For someone with psychosis from schizophrenia, hallucinations seem very real. They often have difficulty telling them apart from actual experiences. Understandably, hallucinations can be frightening and disorienting for the person experiencing them. #### Delusions Delusions (false beliefs that aren’t based in any sort of reality) are when someone with psychosis from schizophrenia believes things that aren’t real are actually happening. For example, some delusions include believing they’re an important political figure, that a movie star they haven’t met is in love with them, or that a major catastrophe is about to occur. They can also include things like paranoid delusions, where someone believes their private thoughts are being broadcasted, someone is spying on them, someone is out to get them, or there are special messages specifically for them in ordinary items. Delusions can begin suddenly, or they can gradually develop over weeks or months. #### Confused thoughts and disorganized thinking A type of cognitive symptom, schizophrenia can cause what people describe as confused thoughts, like a haze being cast over their thinking. They might even believe that someone is stealing their thoughts. A sign of this positive symptom is being unable to follow the plot of a television show or the main point of a newspaper article. #### Behavior and thought changes People with schizophrenia often have confused, disorganized speech. This means that when they talk, they don’t make much or any sense. In addition, they may behave in bizarre or unusual ways, like making sudden faces, striking unnatural poses, or becoming very silly or extremely agitated for no reason. ### Negative symptoms Negative symptoms, unlike positive symptoms, are actions and thoughts that *should* be present but aren’t. For example, seeming withdrawn rather than engaged, having no interest in social surroundings, or looking “flat” or emotionless. If you’re wondering *what are the symptoms of schizophrenia*, these are a few of the negative things you want to be aware of. #### Withdraw from the world A common schizophrenia negative symptom is social withdrawal, where someone stops engaging with friends and family and seems to find little pleasure in activities they once enjoyed. They may begin spending the entire day in bed, start avoiding eye contact with others, or suddenly neglect personal hygiene. #### Lose interest in everyday social interactions People with negative schizophrenia symptoms might have little interest in social gatherings. Their attempt to avoid engaging in the world around them can go so far that they might even stop answering the telephone or the door. #### Appear emotionless A common negative symptom of schizophrenia is the absence of outward emotion. People with schizophrenia are often described as having a blank face with no expression. The term “flat” is used, as they might speak in a monotone voice and may not express much, if any, emotions (like laughing or crying). They also may not make any attempt to carry on a conversation. ## Managing Symptoms of Schizophrenia It’s important to note that schizophrenia isn’t “curable,” and exact schizophrenia causes are largely unknown. It *is*, however, very treatable, and most people can successfully manage their condition and go on to live very rewarding, fulfilling lives. That said, learning to cope with schizophrenia is a lifelong endeavor. Several types of treatment are available to help people better manage the symptoms of schizophrenia. The most commonly used techniques are psychotherapy and medication. In addition to those, support and self-help tools can also be essential components of any successful treatment plan. > #### “Medication management is important in effectively treating schizophrenia, along with talk therapy. Most individuals with schizophrenia can manage a healthy lifestyle with a good combination of medication and therapy. Learning coping skills and maintaining a healthy lifestyle that works for the individual is important. For some more extreme cases, inpatient care may be necessary.” > ![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/minkyung-chung-headshot.png) > > Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), MS [Minkyung Chung](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/author/minkyungchung/) **Psychotherapy**, also called talk therapy, teaches people with schizophrenia ways to deal with their symptoms and better engage with the outside world. Therapy for schizophrenia can also be useful in helping manage stress, which is a common trigger for schizophrenia symptoms. Talk therapy for schizophrenia is usually done in one-on-one sessions with a therapist, however, sometimes, regarding how to help someone with schizophrenia, family members or close friends will join to learn how they can better support a loved one. When it comes to treatment for schizophrenia without medication, either in-person or [online therapy](https://www.talkspace.com/online-therapy/) is the way to go. **Medication** is often used in conjunction with psychotherapy. Common [medications to treat schizophrenia](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/medications/) include 2 classes of drugs — older generations of antipsychotic~~s~~ drugs (known as typical antipsychotics) and the newer versions, which are referred to as atypical antipsychotics. No one medication will be right for everyone, though, so patience will be key in finding the most effective treatment plan. Atypical antipsychotic medication will generally be tried first, as these newer medications can have less severe side effects and often be more effective at treating psychotic symptoms. However, in cases when they’re not working, typical antipsychotics can also be tried. - **Typical antipsychotics:** - Haldol (Haloperidol) - Loxitane (Loxapine) - Navane (Thiothixene) - Prolixin (Fluphenazine) - Thorazine (Chlorpromazine) - Trilafon (Perphenazine) - Stelazine (Trifluoperazine) - **Atypical antipsychotics:** - [Abilify (Aripiprazole)](https://www.talkspace.com/psychiatry/medications/abilify/) - Fanapt (Iloperidone) - Geodon (Ziprasidone) - Invega (Paliperidone) - Latuda (Lurasidone) - Risperdal (Risperidone) - Rexulti (Brexpiprazole) - Saphris (Asenapine) - Seroquel (Quetiapine) - Vraylar (Cariprazine) - Zyprexa (Olanzapine) A common issue with treating schizophrenia is difficulty ensuring someone continues to take their medication consistently. Many times, when they start feeling better, people will discontinue their meds, believing they no longer need them. Most of the time, though, this results in the return of symptoms, sometimes with a vengeance. **Self-help techniques** and [self care](https://www.talkspace.com/blog/what-is-self-care/) is often recommended in schizophrenia treatment plans. Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, working out, and doing things like meditating and journaling can all be beneficial, both mentally and physically. ## When to Seek a Professional It’s important to seek professional help when you first notice signs of schizophrenia, either in yourself or in someone you care about. Early treatment vastly increases the chances for someone with schizophrenia to improve and have a better quality of life. Sometimes people with schizophrenia are unaware of their condition. In these cases, it can fall on a family member or close friend to help them find schizophrenia treatment. A primary care physician can connect you with a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist who has experience in treating schizophrenia successfully. The most important thing to remember is that this *is* a treatable condition, and you deserve to get the help that’s out there. Don’t wait — reach out to find guidance and support in managing symptoms of schizophrenia. ### See References - ##### [What is Schizophrenia?](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/schizophrenia/what-is-schizophrenia) Torres, M.D., MBA, DFAPA F. American Psychiatric Association. Published 2020. Accessed May 16, 2022. ![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/minkyung-chung-headshot.png) [Minkyung Chung, MS, LMHC](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/author/minkyungchung/) Minkyung Chung has over 10 years of experience and specializes in multicultural issues, specifically issues unique to the Asian American population. She enjoys working within the Asian American community to help reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health services and normalize the process of it. Her passion for this topic has led her to focus her research efforts in examining how to help the Asian American community. [![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/Icon-edit.svg)Our Editorial Process](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/editorial-process/) [![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/Icon-tick.svg)Our Review Board](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/review-board/%20) [![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/icon-share.svg) Share]() [![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/icon-facebook.svg)](http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms/) 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Started](https://match.talkspace.com/flow/90/step/1) ### Articles about Schizophrenia [View all articles]() ![Featured Image](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/0.gif) **Schizophrenia** June 18, 2024 #### [Does Schizophrenia Get Worse with Age?](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/articles/does-schizophrenia-get-worse-with-age/) ![Featured Image](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/0.gif) **Schizophrenia** June 18, 2024 #### [High-Functioning Schizophrenia: Diagnosis, Symptoms & Treatment](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/articles/high-functioning-schizophrenia/) ![Featured Image](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/0.gif) **Schizophrenia** June 18, 2024 #### [Psychosis vs Schizophrenia: What’s the Difference?](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/articles/psychosis-vs-schizophrenia/) ![Featured Image](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/0.gif) **Schizophrenia** September 1, 2022 #### [What is Residual Schizophrenia?](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/types/residual-schizophrenia/) ![Featured Image](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/0.gif) **Schizophrenia** August 31, 2022 #### [Undifferentiated Schizophrenia: Definition, Symptoms, and Traits](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/types/undifferentiated-schizophrenia/) ![Featured Image](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/0.gif) **Schizophrenia** August 29, 2022 #### [Paranoid Schizophrenia: Symptoms, Causes & Diagnosis](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/types/paranoid-schizophrenia/) ![Featured Image](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/0.gif) **Schizophrenia** August 24, 2022 #### [Catatonic Schizophrenia: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/types/catatonic-schizophrenia/) ![Featured Image](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/0.gif) **Schizophrenia** August 18, 2022 #### [Disorganized (Hebephrenic) Schizophrenia Defined](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/types/hebephrenic-schizophrenia/) ![Featured Image](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/0.gif) **Schizophrenia** July 14, 2022 #### [Dating Someone with Schizophrenia: What to Expect](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/relationships-dating/) ![Featured Image](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/0.gif) **Schizophrenia** June 29, 2022 #### [Schizophrenia in Children & Teens](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/children-teens/) ![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/0.gif) ### Learn more about Schizophrenia - ![Icon](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/icon-2.svg) ##### [Types of Schizophrenia](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/types/) - ![Icon](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/icon-3.svg) ##### [Symptoms of Schizophrenia](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms/) - ![Icon](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/icon-4.svg) ##### [Causes of Schizophrenia](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/causes/) - ![Icon](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/icon-5.svg) ##### [Diagnosing of Schizophrenia](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/diagnosis/) - ![Icon](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/icon-6.svg) ##### [Treatment for Schizophrenia](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/how-to-treat/) - ![Icon](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/icon-7.svg) ##### [Therapy for Schizophrenia](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/therapy-treatment-types/) - 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##### Table of Contents: - [Overview](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms/#section-1) - [Conditions Under the Schizophrenia Spectrum](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms/#section-2) - [Signs of Schizophrenia](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms/#section-3) - [Symptoms of Schizophrenia](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms/#section-5) - [Managing Symptoms of Schizophrenia](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms/#section-6) - [When to Seek a Professional](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms/#section-8) ## Our Editorial Standards ![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/editorial-Icon-1-1.svg) Reviewed for Accuracy ![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/editorial-Icon-3-1.svg) Up-to-date Research ![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/editorial-Icon-2-1.svg) Credible References Updated On: August 20, 2025 ## Overview If you’ve ever wondered: *what are the symptoms of schizophrenia*, you should understand that many of the signs are easy to recognize, but that’s not always the case. This is why it’s so important to know how to identify signs of [schizophrenia](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/), especially if you’re concerned that you or a loved one might be living with this mental health condition that affects less than an [estimated 1%](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/schizophrenia/what-is-schizophrenia) of the population in the United States. Schizophrenia refers to a condition and spectrum of complex brain disorders that can affect how someone thinks, feels, and acts. The sooner schizophrenia is diagnosed, the more quickly you can learn to manage it. Early intervention is essential for the best long-term outcomes of schizophrenia management. ## Conditions Under the Schizophrenia Spectrum Alongside the different types of schizophrenia, there are conditions that fall under the schizophrenia spectrum. The *American Psychiatric Association’s* *Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition*, or the *DSM-5* classifies these as disorders in the schizophrenia spectrum: - Schizophrenia - Schizotypal personality disorder - Delusional disorder - Brief psychotic disorder - Schizophreniform disorder - Schizoaffective disorder - Catatonia - Other schizophrenia spectrum disorders People with schizophrenia usually first exhibit schizophrenic symptoms in their late teens to early 20s. It’s rare for very young children or people older than age 40 to be diagnosed with the disorder or first see their symptoms at those ages. ### Online therapy for Schizophrenia Get a mental health evaluation and support for managing your schizophrenia symptoms with a licensed therapist. > #### “Schizophrenia is a disorder that’s been characterized with extreme traits. While this could be true, the signs of schizophrenia and the severity of these signs can vary from person to person. Many can struggle with auditory/visual hallucinations, delusions, and confused thoughts. It’s important to note that not all of these signs may be present. Oftentimes, it could be a small change in behavior and thoughts.” **Signs of schizophrenia** **include:** - Hallucinations - Delusions - Grandiose ideas - Becoming overly excited for no reason - Memory problems - Lack of emotional expression - Confused thoughts and disorganized thinking - Extreme changes in thoughts and behavior - Negative symptoms like withdrawal and isolation — this includes withdrawing from friends, family, and activities that were once enjoyable ## Symptoms of Schizophrenia Mental health professionals categorize symptoms of schizophrenia into two arenas — positive and negative symptoms. ### Positive symptoms Positive schizophrenic symptoms are loosely defined as changes in thoughts or behaviors. These are new thoughts, like suddenly believing that people on television are listening to what you’re thinking, that the FBI is out to get you, or that someone is following you. #### Hallucinations Hallucinations can be either visual (seeing things that aren’t there), auditory (hearing voices that aren’t real), or both. For someone with psychosis from schizophrenia, hallucinations seem very real. They often have difficulty telling them apart from actual experiences. Understandably, hallucinations can be frightening and disorienting for the person experiencing them. #### Delusions Delusions (false beliefs that aren’t based in any sort of reality) are when someone with psychosis from schizophrenia believes things that aren’t real are actually happening. For example, some delusions include believing they’re an important political figure, that a movie star they haven’t met is in love with them, or that a major catastrophe is about to occur. They can also include things like paranoid delusions, where someone believes their private thoughts are being broadcasted, someone is spying on them, someone is out to get them, or there are special messages specifically for them in ordinary items. Delusions can begin suddenly, or they can gradually develop over weeks or months. #### Confused thoughts and disorganized thinking A type of cognitive symptom, schizophrenia can cause what people describe as confused thoughts, like a haze being cast over their thinking. They might even believe that someone is stealing their thoughts. A sign of this positive symptom is being unable to follow the plot of a television show or the main point of a newspaper article. #### Behavior and thought changes People with schizophrenia often have confused, disorganized speech. This means that when they talk, they don’t make much or any sense. In addition, they may behave in bizarre or unusual ways, like making sudden faces, striking unnatural poses, or becoming very silly or extremely agitated for no reason. ### Negative symptoms Negative symptoms, unlike positive symptoms, are actions and thoughts that *should* be present but aren’t. For example, seeming withdrawn rather than engaged, having no interest in social surroundings, or looking “flat” or emotionless. If you’re wondering *what are the symptoms of schizophrenia*, these are a few of the negative things you want to be aware of. #### Withdraw from the world A common schizophrenia negative symptom is social withdrawal, where someone stops engaging with friends and family and seems to find little pleasure in activities they once enjoyed. They may begin spending the entire day in bed, start avoiding eye contact with others, or suddenly neglect personal hygiene. #### Lose interest in everyday social interactions People with negative schizophrenia symptoms might have little interest in social gatherings. Their attempt to avoid engaging in the world around them can go so far that they might even stop answering the telephone or the door. #### Appear emotionless A common negative symptom of schizophrenia is the absence of outward emotion. People with schizophrenia are often described as having a blank face with no expression. The term “flat” is used, as they might speak in a monotone voice and may not express much, if any, emotions (like laughing or crying). They also may not make any attempt to carry on a conversation. ## Managing Symptoms of Schizophrenia It’s important to note that schizophrenia isn’t “curable,” and exact schizophrenia causes are largely unknown. It *is*, however, very treatable, and most people can successfully manage their condition and go on to live very rewarding, fulfilling lives. That said, learning to cope with schizophrenia is a lifelong endeavor. Several types of treatment are available to help people better manage the symptoms of schizophrenia. The most commonly used techniques are psychotherapy and medication. In addition to those, support and self-help tools can also be essential components of any successful treatment plan. > #### “Medication management is important in effectively treating schizophrenia, along with talk therapy. Most individuals with schizophrenia can manage a healthy lifestyle with a good combination of medication and therapy. Learning coping skills and maintaining a healthy lifestyle that works for the individual is important. For some more extreme cases, inpatient care may be necessary.” **Psychotherapy**, also called talk therapy, teaches people with schizophrenia ways to deal with their symptoms and better engage with the outside world. Therapy for schizophrenia can also be useful in helping manage stress, which is a common trigger for schizophrenia symptoms. Talk therapy for schizophrenia is usually done in one-on-one sessions with a therapist, however, sometimes, regarding how to help someone with schizophrenia, family members or close friends will join to learn how they can better support a loved one. When it comes to treatment for schizophrenia without medication, either in-person or [online therapy](https://www.talkspace.com/online-therapy/) is the way to go. **Medication** is often used in conjunction with psychotherapy. Common [medications to treat schizophrenia](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/medications/) include 2 classes of drugs — older generations of antipsychotic~~s~~ drugs (known as typical antipsychotics) and the newer versions, which are referred to as atypical antipsychotics. No one medication will be right for everyone, though, so patience will be key in finding the most effective treatment plan. Atypical antipsychotic medication will generally be tried first, as these newer medications can have less severe side effects and often be more effective at treating psychotic symptoms. However, in cases when they’re not working, typical antipsychotics can also be tried. - **Typical antipsychotics:** - Haldol (Haloperidol) - Loxitane (Loxapine) - Navane (Thiothixene) - Prolixin (Fluphenazine) - Thorazine (Chlorpromazine) - Trilafon (Perphenazine) - Stelazine (Trifluoperazine) - **Atypical antipsychotics:** - [Abilify (Aripiprazole)](https://www.talkspace.com/psychiatry/medications/abilify/) - Fanapt (Iloperidone) - Geodon (Ziprasidone) - Invega (Paliperidone) - Latuda (Lurasidone) - Risperdal (Risperidone) - Rexulti (Brexpiprazole) - Saphris (Asenapine) - Seroquel (Quetiapine) - Vraylar (Cariprazine) - Zyprexa (Olanzapine) A common issue with treating schizophrenia is difficulty ensuring someone continues to take their medication consistently. Many times, when they start feeling better, people will discontinue their meds, believing they no longer need them. Most of the time, though, this results in the return of symptoms, sometimes with a vengeance. **Self-help techniques** and [self care](https://www.talkspace.com/blog/what-is-self-care/) is often recommended in schizophrenia treatment plans. Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, working out, and doing things like meditating and journaling can all be beneficial, both mentally and physically. ## When to Seek a Professional It’s important to seek professional help when you first notice signs of schizophrenia, either in yourself or in someone you care about. Early treatment vastly increases the chances for someone with schizophrenia to improve and have a better quality of life. Sometimes people with schizophrenia are unaware of their condition. In these cases, it can fall on a family member or close friend to help them find schizophrenia treatment. A primary care physician can connect you with a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist who has experience in treating schizophrenia successfully. The most important thing to remember is that this *is* a treatable condition, and you deserve to get the help that’s out there. Don’t wait — reach out to find guidance and support in managing symptoms of schizophrenia. ### See References - ##### [What is Schizophrenia?](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/schizophrenia/what-is-schizophrenia) Torres, M.D., MBA, DFAPA F. American Psychiatric Association. Published 2020. Accessed May 16, 2022. ![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/04/minkyung-chung-headshot.png) [Minkyung Chung, MS, LMHC](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/author/minkyungchung/) Minkyung Chung has over 10 years of experience and specializes in multicultural issues, specifically issues unique to the Asian American population. She enjoys working within the Asian American community to help reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health services and normalize the process of it. Her passion for this topic has led her to focus her research efforts in examining how to help the Asian American community. ![](https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/wp-content/themes/talkspace-conditions/assets/images/0.gif)

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