Schizophrenia: destigmatizing and supporting
A chronic but treatable psychiatric illness
Dr. Lila Aubry
Psychiatrist
In simple terms
Antipsychotics, psychosocial rehabilitation: living with schizophrenia in 2026.
A multifaceted disease
Schizophrenia affects about 1% of the population, most often starting between 15 and 25 years old. Positive symptoms (hallucinations, delusions), negative symptoms (withdrawal, apathy), cognitive symptoms (attention, working memory).
Diagnosis
DSM-5/ICD-11 criteria: symptoms at least 6 months with functional impairment. Importance of early intervention (first psychotic episodes).
Treatments
Second-generation antipsychotics (risperidone, olanzapine, aripiprazole, paliperidone): standard. Long-acting injectable forms (every 2 weeks to 6 months): therapeutic adherence. Clozapine for resistant forms.
Psychosocial approach
Psychoeducation, cognitive remediation, employment support (job coaching), family therapy, supported housing. Fighting stigma is essential.
Lifestyle
Cannabis cessation (major precipitating factor), cardio-metabolic monitoring (effect of treatments), physical activity, regular sleep.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Symptom
- A sign you can feel or see that something is wrong, like pain, tiredness or a rash.
- Diagnosis
- The moment a doctor identifies which illness is causing your symptoms.
- Cognitive
- Related to thinking: memory, attention, learning and decision-making.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Schizophrenia: destigmatizing and supporting?
- Antipsychotics, psychosocial rehabilitation: living with schizophrenia in 2026.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Schizophrenia: destigmatizing and supporting?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Schizophrenia: destigmatizing and supporting?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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