Facts About Schizophrenia

  • It is estimated that more than 2.1 million Americans now have schizophrenia. There are more Americans with schizophrenia than there are residents of North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming combined.

  • Schizophrenia can be found in approximately 1% of the world’s population, regardless of racial, ethnic or even economic background.

  • Three-quarters of persons with schizophrenia develop the illness between 16 and 25 years of age.

  • The disorder tends to “run” in families, but only among blood relatives.

  • To be diagnosed as having schizophrenia, one must have associated symptoms for at least six months.

  • Studies have indicated that 25 percent of those having schizophrenia recover completely, 50 percent are improved over a 10-year period, and 25 percent do not improve over time.

  • Treatment and other economic costs due to schizophrenia are enormous, estimated between $32.5 and $65 billion.

  • Between one-third and one-half of all homeless adults have schizophrenia.

  • Fifty percent of people diagnosed with schizophrenia have received no treatment.