Schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders
Schizophreniform Disorder
Schizophreniform disorder has the same core psychotic symptoms as schizophrenia, but its total duration is at least one month and less than six months.
A diagnosis defined partly by duration
Symptoms may include delusions, hallucinations, disorganised speech or behaviour and reduced emotional expression or motivation. At least two core symptom areas are present for a significant part of one month, and at least one is delusions, hallucinations or disorganised speech.
The condition sits between brief psychotic disorder and schizophrenia in duration. When six months have not yet elapsed and recovery is uncertain, the diagnosis may be recorded provisionally.
Assessment
- The total episode lasts one to under six months; functional decline may be serious but is not required as a diagnostic criterion.
- The relationship between psychosis and full mood episodes is assessed across time.
- Substances, medicines and medical or neurological causes must be considered, especially in a first episode.
Early treatment
Referral to a first-episode psychosis service is appropriate where available. Antipsychotic medication may reduce active symptoms and is chosen with psychiatric monitoring.
CBT for psychosis, family interventions and support for sleep, physical health, substance use, education, employment and practical needs are part of care. Follow-up continues after improvement because the later course cannot be predicted with certainty.
When urgent help is needed
First delusions, hallucinations, severe disorganisation, catatonia or rapid functional decline needs prompt assessment. Suicide risk, immediate threats, severe confusion, extreme agitation or inability to eat, drink or care safely for oneself is an emergency.