Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is rare in children under 12. Schizophrenia may have a gradual onset, with symptoms of withdrawal and disordered language seen over time, or it can have a sudden onset in adolescence. Schizophrenia is characterized by the distorted thinking associated with delusions and hallucinations.

Delusions are ideas that seem real, but are not based in reality. Hallucinations occur when a person sees, hears, or feels things that are not there. 

Youngsters diagnosed with this disorder should get help as soon as possible. Medication is the most effective treatment for the symptoms and improves the day-to-day functioning of individuals with schizophrenia.