Schizophrenia is a chronic brain disorder that affects about 1% of people at some point in their lives. It often first develops between ages 16-30. While genes are a factor, environmental influences like prenatal conditions or substance use also contribute. Symptoms include hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking/speech, and reduced emotional expression. Treatments include antipsychotic medications, therapy like cognitive behavioral therapy, and potentially institutional care. The exact causes are unknown but likely involve both genetic and environmental factors interacting during brain development.