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Condition

Pediatric Schizophrenia

Key Points About Schizophrenia in Children

  • Schizophrenia is a serious, life-long mental illness. It can be treated by not cured.
  • A child with this disorder has unusual behavior and strange feelings. They may have delusions or hallucinations.
  • Symptoms can develop slowly over time or start quickly.
  • A mental health expert can diagnose schizophrenia. Ask for a referral to a psychiatrist with experience evaluating and treating children with schizophrenia.
  • Treatment can include a combination of medicine, therapy and special programs.
  • The American with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Civil Rights Act provide legal protections for your child in a public school setting.
  • Schizophrenia is a difficult disease. Talk with your child’s healthcare provider about a support group for caregivers and siblings of children with schizophrenia or seek individual and family counseling.

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Psychiatric Treatment at Children's National Hospital

Our nationally recognized psychiatric specialists offer assessment, diagnosis and care for children and teens with behavioral, emotional and developmental disorders. Discover more about the treatments we offer.

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Providers Who Treat Schizophrenia

    Departments that Treat Schizophrenia

    Psychology and Behavioral Health

    In the Division of Psychology and Behavioral Health, our child psychologists and other mental health professionals work exclusively with children and teens, emphasizing patient and family-focused care.

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    Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences

    Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Children's National offers assessment, diagnosis and care for children and teens with behavioral, emotional and developmental disorders.