Definition of Undifferentiated Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a mental health condition that interferes with a person’s perception of reality. In earlier editions of the DSM, schizophrenia was divided into five subtypes. Undifferentiated schizophrenia essentially served as a catch-all diagnosis when someone’s symptoms did not fit neatly into any other category.
Why the Term Is No Longer Used
The most recent edition of the DSM (DSM-5) no longer includes any of the five subtypes of schizophrenia. According to the American Psychiatric Association, the classifications have not proven to be reliable in diagnosing schizophrenia and do not reflect the broad diversity of symptoms that can occur in people with schizophrenia.
Symptoms and Diagnostic Criteria
How symptoms would lead to a diagnosis of schizophrenia is very different today than in previous editions of the DSM. Today, schizophrenia is understood to take many different forms and can be experienced in different ways by different people. Moreover, the symptoms may not occur all at the same time and can change over time. The formal name was changed to schizophrenia spectrum disorder in 2013 to reflect this.
With this in mind, the symptoms of schizophrenia are broken down into five broad categories in the DSM-5:
- Delusions
- Hallucinations
- Disorganized speech
- Grossly disorganized or catatonic behavior
- Negative symptoms
Coping
Schizophrenia is a life-long condition, so finding coping strategies is important.
Some helpful tips for those living with undifferentiated schizophrenia include:
- With the help of professionals, create and maintain a treatment plan.
- If prescribed medication, take it regularly as directed and do not stop without consulting a healthcare provider.
- Eat a healthy diet. Consulting with a dietitian may be helpful.
- Get plenty of exercise. Exercise is good for both physical and mental health.
- Manage and minimize stress with techniques such as relaxation, knowing and respecting your limits, and managing your emotions.
- Get plenty of sleep.
- Avoid substances like alcohol, drugs, and smoking.
- Speak with a healthcare provider about changing or adjusting medications if you are not noticing improvement or if your medications are causing bothersome side effects.
- Set goals and work towards them.
Finding Support
Living with undifferentiated schizophrenia is difficult to do alone. Having the support of others can make treatment and management of undifferentiated schizophrenia more effective, and make life with schizophrenia more enjoyable.
Some ways to find support include:
- Reaching out to trusted friends, family, and loved ones
- Joining activities or groups involving things you enjoy such as sports, volunteering, or hobbies
- Joining local clubs or organizations
- Finding a living environment that makes you feel safe and supports your needs, whether that means living alone, community or supportive living, living with friends or family, or something else
- Contacting support services in your area
A Word From Verywell
Undifferentiated schizophrenia can be hard to recognize and difficult to live with, but with proper support and treatment, it can be manageable. If you are experiencing symptoms of undifferentiated schizophrenia, book an appointment to see your healthcare provider or a mental health professional to get a proper diagnosis, and find a treatment plan that works for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How common is undifferentiated schizophrenia?
Undifferentiated schizophrenia is an outdated diagnosis for people who meet the criteria for schizophrenia but whose symptoms do not align with any of the four schizophrenia subtypes (also outdated). Today, there is only one category of schizophrenia. It affects approximately 1 in 300 people worldwide. - How long does undifferentiated schizophrenia last?
Although schizophrenia is a life-long condition, it can often be effectively managed with treatment. The same may not be true for a related condition called schizophreniform disorder, a short-term psychotic condition that generally lasts for one to six months.
