What is the condition of the individual’s functioning in Schizophrenia typically described as?

In schizophrenia, the condition of an individual’s functioning is typically characterized by a profound decline in functioning. This decline often occurs in multiple areas of life, including social, occupational, and personal domains. Many individuals experience difficulties with basic daily activities, interpersonal relationships, and the ability to maintain employment, often leading to increased reliance on family or community support.

The decline often follows a prodromal phase—where there may be subtle changes in behavior or cognition—and can lead to more noticeable impairments during acute episodes of psychosis. While some individuals may experience periods of stability, the overarching trend for most who have been diagnosed is one of significant functional impairment, making it challenging for them to return to levels of functioning they had prior to the onset of the disorder.