Schizophrenia is a mental disorder characterized by delusions, hallucinations, and disordered thoughts and behaviors. Although schizophrenia requires lifelong treatment, early intervention can help individuals effectively manage their symptoms. Even so, it can be a challenging condition to navigate for both the patient and their loved ones. is part of Greenwood's Inside Diseases and Disorders series. This series profiles a variety of physical and psychological conditions, distilling and consolidating vast collections of scientific knowledge into concise, readable volumes. A list of "top 10" essential questions begins each book, providing quick-access answers to readers' most pressing concerns. The text follows a standardized, easy-to-navigate structure, with each chapter exploring a particular facet of the topic. In addition to covering such basics as causes, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, books in this series delve into issues that are less commonly addressed but still critically important, such as effects on loved ones and caregivers. Case illustrations highlight key themes discussed in the book and are accompanied by insightful analyses and recommendations.