People with schizophrenia often experience both "positive" symptoms (psychological disturbances "added" as a result of the disorder, e.g. hallucinations) and "negative" symptoms (psychological capabilities the patient has "lost," e.g. initiative). The illness appears to be cyclical, worsening in periods known as relapse and improving during remission.

At times, people suffering from schizophrenia appear emotionally healthy and stable. However, during the acute or psychotic phase, people with schizophrenia may not be able to think logically and may lose all sense of who they and others are. For a person with schizophrenia, everyday tasks like thinking clearly, controlling emotions, making decisions, and relating to others are challenges. Symptoms commonly associated with schizophrenia include:

"Positive" Symptoms

• Delusions
• Hallucinations
• Disorganized thinking
• Agitation

"Negative" Symptoms

• Lack of drive or initiative
• Social withdrawal
• Apathy
• Emotional unresponsiveness

Early Warning Signs of Schizophrenia*

If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms for more than two weeks – or if the behavior seems extreme or unusual – seek medical help immediately.

• Hearing or seeing something that isn't there
• A constant feeling of being watched
• Peculiar or nonsensical way of speaking or writing
• Strange posturing
• Feeling indifferent to very important situations
• Deterioration of academic or work performance
• A change in personality
• Increasing withdrawal from social situations
• Irrational, angry, or fearful responses to loved ones
• Inability to sleep or concentrate
• Inappropriate or bizarre behavior
• Extreme preoccupation with religion or the occult

Remember that the appearance of these warning signs does not necessarily mean that you or your loved one has schizophrenia. Only a qualified health professional can make a diagnosis.

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