Introduction
|
Schizophrenia is a major health problem in the United Kingdom. It is a common condition, at least one third of patients in psychiatric beds suffer from this disorder. The first acute symptoms of schizophrenia delusions and hallucinations usually occur in early adult life. Characteristically patients have no insight into the abnormal nature of these experiences. These symptoms are followed by a gradual deteriorating course characterised by blunting of normal responses and a decline in social functioning. The symptoms cause severe distress to the patients and their relatives. Extensive resources are required for the management of the acute illness and long term support in the community.
This work is licenced under a Creative Commons Licence.