SCHIZOPHRENIA AND RELATED PSYCHOTIC DISORDERS: A CONTEMPORARY OVERVIEW

Abstract

Schizophrenia and related psychotic illnesses belong to a class of major mental health problems characterized by disturbances in thought, perception, feelings, and behaviour. Because they are long-lasting, frequently start early in life, and have a major social impact, these situations much influence world disability statistics and the load on medical systems. Recent advancements in neuroscience, genetics, and pharmacology have altered the perception of psychosis, treating it as a complex neurodevelopmental illness impacted by genetic influences, environmental stresses, and neurotransmitter imbalances. Many patients continue to experience lasting symptoms and problems in daily activities even under antipsychotics. Encouraging improvements in results are seen with new therapy techniques including drugs that do not impact dopamine, artificial intelligence monitoring, and psychosocial rehabilitation. Based on recent research results, this chapter offers a thorough summary of schizophrenia and related psychotic illnesses focusing on aspects including epidemiology, etiology, biological processes, clinical symptoms, diagnosis, treatment possibilities, and possible future developments.