What is schizophrenia?
A person with schizophrenia has a mental illness that results in difficulty thinking logically and difficulty distinguishing between real and unreal events. The underlying cause of schizophrenia is unknown, but genetics may play a role in determining risk. About 1 out of every 100 people in the US has schizophrenia.

What are the symptoms of schizophrenia?
Symptoms of schizophrenia include hallucinations, which are perceptions of things that do not exist, or delusions, which are false beliefs. Additional symptoms of schizophrenia include bizarre behavior, lack of insight, violence, difficulty controlling emotions, poor communication skills, and poor interpersonal relationships.

How does the doctor treat schizophrenia?
There is no cure for schizophrenia. Treatment for schizophrenia may include mental health counseling, antipsychotic medications, and electroconvulsive therapy.