Hello Sharon,   Schizophrenia is diagnosed based on the presenting symptoms the psychiatrist and other professionals observe that a person exhibits.  The best course of treatment is antipsychotic medication coupled with therapy, support groups and networks, volunteer work or a meaningful job.   You should not be afraid of a loved one with schizophrenia unless he is violent or has threatened you.  People with schizophrenia are no more violent than the general population, but if they are not taking their medication, they could become violent, as was the case with Andrew Goldstein in New York City who threw Kendra Webdale in front of a subway train.   My question to you is, why would you think you have schizophrenia?  I urge you to click on the Basic link under the green Find bar on the upper left of this Web site, and read about the symptoms.   Because if you feel you possibly have schizophrenia, a trip to a doctor will rule out a medical condition that could be causing schizophrenia symptoms.  And if it's determined you do have schizophrenia, the quicker you get treatment, the better the outcome.   The hallmark of schizophrenia is the inability to distinguish what is real from what is not real, with the classic "positive" symptoms being delusions and hallucinations, and the "negative" symptoms being lack of motivation or volition.   A person with schizophrenia can indeed live a full, productive life.   There is hope.   Best regards, Chris