Schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder that affects about 1% of the general population, that is one in every hundred people. It is a complex illness characterised by ‘psychosis’, a word used to describe disorder of thoughts (e.g. delusions - false beliefs held in spite of evidence that they are not real), disorder of perceptions (e.g. hallucinations - seeing, hearing or feeling things which are not there), disorganised speech and grossly disorganised behaviour. These features are not experienced by others and are not seen as abnormal by the sufferer, in that they seem completely real. These four symptoms are often referred to as the ‘Positive Symptoms’ of schizophrenia because they are the result of the disease process.

The fifth group of symptoms: withdrawal, decreased ability to feel pleasure, lack of energy, and flat affect, are referred to as ‘Negative Symptoms’ because they represent a loss of normal functions.
Schizophrenia affects different people in different ways. Some people may experience only a few short episodes and then fully recover. For others it lasts throughout their lives and needs to be treated like any other physical illness such as asthma or diabetes.

It is important that schizophrenia is treated as early as possible in its course to minimise or prevent long-term disability and loss of function.

Often referral to a psychiatrist and mental health team is needed to diagnose and manage schizophrenia optimally.

Treatment
Schizophrenia may be treated using a number of different approaches:
•Use of antipsychotic medication
•Psychosocial education programs e.g. education, support, counselling and assistance to return to job/studies/performing daily tasks
•Ongoing support e.g. housing, monitoring of treatment, support groups.

What is Schizophrenia (English language): Mental Health Foundation of NZ
What is Schizophrenia (Maori language): Mental Health Foundation of NZ