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People usually develop schizophrenia between the ages of 15 and 34 years. Men have a tendency to develop the condition about five to ten years earlier than women. Schizophrenia can also begin later in life and, although rare, can occur in children.
The onset of a psychotic episode may be gradual or rapid but the majority of individuals display some early signs and symptoms, often referred to as the ’something is not quite right’ phase. During this time, people may withdraw from their family and friends, have changes in their appetite and sleep patterns, find it difficult to concentrate and as a result have difficulties at school, work or in the home. The person may find this period very disturbing, even frightening, and may not want to talk about what is happening to them. This period is referred to in medical language as the ’prodrome’ and its length can be anything from a month to several years.
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