Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a severe long-term mental health condition. It can cause a range of psychological symptoms. Doctors often describe schizophrenia as a type of psychosis. This means the person may not always be able to distinguish their own thoughts and ideas from reality.
Symptoms of schizophrenia include:
- Hallucinations – hearing or seeing things that do not exist outside of the mind
- Delusions – unusual beliefs not based on reality
- Muddled thoughts based on hallucinations or delusions
- Losing interest in everyday activities
- Not caring about personal hygiene
- Wanting to avoid people, including friends
Learn more: www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia
Page last reviewed: 29 February, 2024