Preparing for an appointment

You're likely to start by first having your child see his or her pediatrician or family doctor. In some cases, you may be referred immediately to a specialist, such as a pediatric psychiatrist or other mental health professional who's an expert in schizophrenia.

In rare cases where safety is an issue, your child may require an emergency evaluation in the emergency room and possibly admission for psychiatric care in a hospital.

What you can do

Before the appointment make a list of:

• Any symptoms you've noticed, including when these symptoms began and how they've changed over time — give specific examples
• Key personal information, including any major stresses or recent life changes that may be affecting your child
• Any other medical conditions, including mental health problems, that your child has
• All prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, herbs or other supplements that your child takes, including the dosages
• Questions to ask the doctor

Basic questions to ask the doctor may include:

• What is likely causing my child's symptoms or condition?
• What are other possible causes?
• What kinds of tests does my child need?
• Is my child's condition likely temporary or long term?
• How will a diagnosis of childhood schizophrenia affect my child's life?
• What's the best treatment for my child?
• What specialists does my child need to see?
• Who else will be involved in the care of my child?
• Are there any brochures or other printed material that I can have?
• What websites do you recommend?

Don't hesitate to ask any other questions during your appointment.

What to expect from your doctor

Your child's doctor is likely to ask you and your child a number of questions. Anticipating some of these questions will help make the discussion productive. Your doctor may ask:

• When did symptoms first start?
• Have symptoms been continuous or occasional?
• How severe are the symptoms?
• What, if anything, seems to improve the symptoms?
• What, if anything, appears to worsen the symptoms?
• How do the symptoms affect your child's daily life?
• Have any relatives been diagnosed with schizophrenia or another mental illness?
• Has your child experienced any physical or emotional trauma?
• Do symptoms seem to be related to major changes or stressors within the family or social environment?
• Have any other medical symptoms, such as headaches, nausea, tremors or fevers, occurred around the same time that the symptoms started?

The doctor will ask additional questions based on responses, symptoms and needs.