A short-term psychotic disorder with symptoms similar to schizophrenia
1. Definition & Diagnostic Criteria (DSM-5)
Schizophreniform Disorder is characterized by:
✅ Identical symptoms to schizophrenia (delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech/behavior)
✅ Duration of 1-6 months (vs. 6+ months for schizophrenia)
✅ No requirement for functional decline (unlike schizophrenia)
Key Notes:
- ~1/3 of cases progress to schizophrenia after 6 months
- Often considered a “provisional diagnosis” while monitoring symptom duration
2. Symptoms Comparison
| Feature | Schizophreniform | Schizophrenia |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1-6 months | 6+ months |
| Functional Impact | May or may not occur | Required for diagnosis |
| Prognosis | Better (if brief) | Chronic |
Core Symptoms:
- Positive: Hallucinations, delusions
- Negative: Reduced emotional expression
- Cognitive: Trouble concentrating
3. Causes & Risk Factors
- Genetic: Family history of psychotic disorders
- Brain Changes: Similar to schizophrenia but less pronounced
- Triggers:
- Extreme stress (e.g., trauma, migration)
- Substance use (especially cannabis in teens)
Myth Buster:
❌ “This is just mild schizophrenia” → False. It’s defined by duration, not severity.
4. Diagnosis Process
- Rule Out:
- Medical conditions (e.g., brain tumors, epilepsy)
- Drug-induced psychosis
- Brief psychotic disorder (<1 month)
- Monitor Timeline:
- Re-evaluate at 6 months to confirm/change diagnosis
5. Treatment Approach
A. Medications
- Antipsychotics (e.g., Risperidone, Aripiprazole)
- Mood stabilizers (if manic symptoms present)
B. Psychotherapy
- CBT for psychosis
- Family education about early warning signs
C. Social Support
- Vocational rehabilitation
- Stress management techniques
6. Prognosis
- Good Outcome (2/3 cases): Full recovery within 6 months
- Poor Outcome (1/3 cases): Progresses to schizophrenia
- Better Prognosis If:
- Rapid symptom onset
- Good pre-illness functioning
- No family history of schizophrenia
7. Key Differences from Similar Disorders
| Disorder | Duration | Mood Symptoms | Prognosis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schizophreniform | 1-6 months | Absent | Variable |
| Brief Psychotic | <1 month | May occur | Usually good |
| Schizoaffective | 6+ months | Required | Chronic |
8. How to Help Someone
✅ Encourage treatment adherence (reduces progression risk)
✅ Monitor symptom duration (critical for diagnosis update)
✅ Provide stable environment (reduces stress triggers)
9. Important Resources
- Early Psychosis Intervention programs worldwide
- Book: Surviving Schizophrenia (includes schizophreniform content)