Overview of schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a severe psychiatric disorder in which positive, negative and cognitive signs and symptoms of psychosis persist for at least 6 months and are accompanied by social and functional decline.
Schizophrenia is the most common psychotic disorder in Australia. It usually arises between late adolescence and 30 years of age and is more prevalent in males than females.
If a first episode of schizophrenia is suspected, for assessment advice, see here for adults and young people and here for children. If relapse is suspected, for assessment advice, see here for adults and young people and here for children.