

POSITIVE SYMPTOMS
Delusions (false beliefs despite evidence which proves these wrong) 6
Hallucinations (sensory experiences not shared by anyone else. These may be heard, seen, smelled, tasted or felt) 6
NEGATIVE SYMPTOMS
- Lack or decline in emotional response
- Lack or decline in speech
- Disorganised speech 4
- Grossly disorganised behaviour (e.g., dressing inappropriately, crying frequently, lack of self-care) 4
- The disorder must cause social and/or occupational dysfunction 5
WHO IS AFFECTED?
Risk factors include: 4
- Genetics (a family history of schizophrenia)
- Environmental factors (such as birth complications, prematurity)
- Having an older father
- Infections during pregnancy
- Serious viral infections of the central nervous system during childhood
- A lifetime history of cannabis/marijuana use
WHAT ARE THE PREDICTORS AND RECOVERY FACTORS?
There are several predictors for poor outcome: 8, 9
- Male
- Injury during pregnancy or birth injury
- Early onset in life
- Severe hallucinations and delusions
- Severe lack of attention
- Inability to express emotion
- Poor functioning before the onset of the illness
- Long length of time that the mental disorder goes untreated
- Unstable emotional environment
HOW DOES IT IMPACT QUALITY OF LIFE?
CAN SCHIZOPHRENIA BE TREATED?
- They are symptom-free
- The episode is mild
- They respond well to treatment.
If the episode is severe or they respond slowly, treatment can last for up to two years. 5 People who already have their second-episode require at least two to five years of medication while symptom-free, while patients who have had three or more episodes should be treated for life. 5
WHAT HAPPENS IF TREATMENT IS NOT ADHERED TO?
HOW CAN THE FAMILY HELP?
In order to manage with the diagnosis in the best possible way, it is important to gain an understanding of schizophrenia in terms of: 9, 11
- The nature of the illness, as well as it course and possible outcomes
- The importance of staying on treatment
- Signs of relapse
- Coping strategies
- Setting of realistic goals
- It is also important to make contact with services within your community who can assist you. 9
WHERE TO GO FOR HELP

This ebrochure is for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide a diagnosis or treatment or replace the advice of your doctor, pharmacist, primary health care nurse or other healthcare provider. You are advised to discuss any questions or concerns you have with your healthcare provider.
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