Can schizophrenia start to show symptoms in a 12-year-old?

Question

Hi doctor,

Can schizophrenia start showing signs in childhood at age 12? My son is 12, and over the last six months, he has begun talking about hearing a voice that tells him things. He has become completely withdrawn from his friends.

His school has noted serious behavioral changes. Our pediatrician has referred us to a child psychiatrist, but the appointment is in six weeks, and I am really frightened about what is happening to him.

I read about childhood-onset schizophrenia, and everything I found says it is rare, but his symptoms seem to match. Could schizophrenia really begin to show clear signs in a 12-year-old, or is this more likely to be something else? What should I document or observe before his psychiatric evaluation to help with the assessment?

Please guide.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for your query, and I can understand your concern.

The onset of schizophrenia before the age of 13 is referred to as early-onset schizophrenia. Before the development of full-blown psychotic symptoms, individuals typically experience a prodrome phase. Prodromal symptoms may include irritability, sleep disturbances, various physical complaints, gastrointestinal issues, withdrawal from social interactions, and poor academic performance.

Since your child is already exhibiting clear psychotic symptoms consistent with schizophrenia, it is important to monitor their condition closely. You should document observations related to their sleep patterns, appetite, self-care, abnormal behaviors, insight into their symptoms, and any self-harming behavior.

I recommend starting antipsychotic therapy as soon as possible.

I hope this information is helpful to you.

Thank you.