How is schizophrenia considered cured?

In general, the recovery from schizophrenia should be evaluated from multiple dimensions. The core criteria include the disappearance of positive symptoms, alleviation of negative symptoms, restoration of social functioning, improvement in cognitive abilities, and good medication adherence. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Disappearance of positive symptoms: Typical symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking have completely subsided. The patient can clearly distinguish reality from abnormal perceptions, no longer suffers from symptoms like hearing voices that aren't there or paranoid delusions, speaks in a logically coherent manner, and exhibits emotional responses appropriate to external stimuli.

2. Alleviation of negative symptoms: Symptoms such as emotional blunting, reduced speech and movement, and diminished interest are improved. The patient initiates communication with others, regains enthusiasm for life, participates in daily social activities, no longer appears isolated or withdrawn, and demonstrates basic emotional responsiveness.

3. Restoration of social functioning: The patient can independently manage daily living activities such as dressing, eating, and personal hygiene, is capable of returning to work or study, can perform tasks commensurate with their abilities, handles simple interpersonal relationships and unexpected situations effectively, and integrates successfully into family and society.

4. Improvement in cognitive abilities: Cognitive impairments such as poor attention, memory decline, and disorganized logical thinking are corrected. The patient can concentrate on tasks, accurately remember important information, think in an organized manner, and make sound judgments and decisions.

5. Good medication adherence: The patient fully understands the importance of taking medication as prescribed, actively follows medical instructions by taking the correct dosage at scheduled times, does not reduce or discontinue medication without consultation, attends regular follow-up appointments, and promptly reports physical and psychological conditions to the doctor—laying the foundation for long-term stability.

During the rehabilitation process, family members should provide full understanding and support, creating an inclusive living environment. Patients should maintain regular sleep patterns, avoid staying up late and excessive fatigue, actively engage in hobbies and social interactions, and consolidate treatment outcomes through a positive lifestyle to reduce the risk of relapse.