The symptoms of both conditions are severe and impact daily functioning.
People with schizophrenia or schizophreniform disorder suffer from three types of symptoms: positive, negative, and cognitive.
Positive Symptoms
Positive symptoms most commonly include delusions and/or hallucinations.
Maskot / Getty Images
A person with negative symptoms may do nothing for long periods of time.
Cognitive Symptoms
Cognitive symptoms most commonly include disorganized thinking and speech.
Another symptom common to both conditions is that of “not making sense” when speaking or writing.
Other cognitive symptoms includememory problems, difficulty concentrating, and poor organization.
How Is Schizophreniform Disorder Diagnosed?
Schizophreniform disorder can be difficult to diagnose because some symptoms are similar to other mental illnesses.
Your doctor may need to rule out other conditions or factors that can cause similar symptoms.
Some people may experience schizophreniform disorder and never develop schizophrenia.
Treatment of Schizophreniform Disorder/Schizophrenia
Treatment options for schizophreniform disorder and schizophrenia include medications and psychosocial therapy.
The goal is to reduce symptoms until the condition resolves on its own or you no longer need treatment.
In contrast, schizophrenia treatment aims to reduce symptoms and prevent a relapse of the condition.
Can Schizophreniform Disorder Lead to a Schizophrenia Diagnosis?
Yes, some people diagnosed with schizophreniform disorder develop schizophrenia or related diagnoses.
Some people experience schizophreniform disorder and never develop schizophrenia.
A Word From Verywell
Schizophreniform disorder and schizophrenia can be scary diagnoses for friends and family members.
It is important to remember, however, that the outlook for someone with these diagnoses can be positive.
These disorders can be effectively treated and most people who receive proper treatment are able to lead fulfilling lives.
Rockville (MD): Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (US); 2016 Jun.
Table 3.20, DSM-IV to DSM-5 Psychotic Disorders.
Naz B, Bromet EJ, Mojtabai R.Distinguishing between first-admission schizophreniform disorder and schizophrenia.Schizophr Res.
2017;59(Suppl 1):S19-S33.
