Schizophrenia is a chronic brain disorder that affects how a person interprets reality. It typically begins in late adolescence or early adulthood and can affect men and women differently in terms of onset and severity. While the condition can be lifelong, many individuals manage symptoms successfully with early diagnosis, medication, and therapy.

Research suggests schizophrenia results from a mix of genetic vulnerability, brain chemistry imbalances, and environmental factors. Certain stressors, like prenatal infections or early drug use, may increase risk in genetically predisposed individuals.