Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness that affects how a person feels, behaves and thinks. It has been linked to genetics, brain chemistry imbalances, environmental factors and family history. Symptoms are categorized into positive symptoms like hallucinations, negative symptoms and cognitive symptoms. For a diagnosis of schizophrenia, two or more symptoms must be present for at least six months. Treatment involves antipsychotic drugs, psychotherapy, and community support.