Schizophrenia Home A-Z Health Information Health Library A-Z Schizophrenia Overview Schizophrenia is a neurodevelopmental disorder of brain characterised by a range of symptoms that include delusions (false, firmly held unshakeable beliefs or thoughts), hallucinations (perception of having heard, seen, touched, tasted or smelled when no such stimuli exist), cognitive difficulties, avolition (no desire to work), anhedonia (inability to feel pleasure), withdrawal along with disturbance in speech and behaviour. Schizophrenia is usually a chronic illness and requires long-term management. Causes The exact cause is unknown. It might be due to a combination ofGeneticsPsychological factorsEnvironmental factors Symptoms The symptoms of Schizophrenia are as follows:HallucinationsPessimistic thinkingDelusionsDisorganised behaviourIllogical speech Diagnosis Schizophrenia is usually diagnosed through:Physical examinationMental health evaluationAlcohol and drug use screening Treatment Management of schizophrenia involves:Medications (anti-psychotic drugs)Cognitive behavioural therapyBrain stimulation therapy