Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is an often severe and disabling disorder that usually begins in late adolescence or early adulthood. The essential features of this illness are a variable array of symptoms, such as delusions, hallucinations, disorganized or impoverished speech or behavior, flattened affect, and avolition. The onset may be abrupt or insidious; in most instances, however, there is a prodromal phase characterized by gradual social withdrawal, diminished interest in or functioning at school or work, changes in appearance and hygiene, or behavior that is odd or unusual for the person. Although a diagnosis of schizophrenia cannot be made on the basis of . . .