After a first episode of schizophrenia, about a quarter make a good recovery within five years, two thirds will have multiple episodes with some degree of disability between these episodes, and 10-15% will develop severe continuous incapacity. Although the illness is severe and disruptive, many people who suffer from it are eventually able to settle down, work and make lasting relationships.

Early symptom onset is more likely to have long-lasting detrimental consequences for the personality of the individual and the remainder of their life. Although it is treatable, relapses are common, and unfortunately it may never fully resolve. It makes working and studying, relating to other people and leading a full, independent life very difficult, and causes families much distress.

What does the future hold?

There is hope for people with schizophrenia and their families. Research is continually leading to new and safer medications and unravelling the complex causes of the disease. Scientists are using many approaches ranging from the study of molecular genetics to demographic and epidemiologic studies to learn about schizophrenia. The development of new technology and scientific method will certainly reveal important insights into this multifaceted illness.

The outlook for people with schizophrenia has improved over the last 25 years. Although no totally effective therapy has yet been devised, it is important to remember that many people with the illness improve enough to lead independent, satisfying lives. As we learn more about the causes and treatments of schizophrenia, we should be able to help more patients achieve successful outcomes.

Studies that have followed people with schizophrenia for long periods, from the first episode to old age, reveal that a wide range of outcomes is possible. When large groups of patients are studied, certain factors tend to be associated with a better outcome – for example, a pre-illness history of normal social, school, and work adjustment. However, the current state of knowledge, does not allow for a sufficiently accurate prediction of long-term outcome.