Geðklofi

Geðklofi, the Icelandic term for schizophrenia, is a chronic psychiatric disorder marked by persistent disturbances in thought, perception, emotion, and behavior. It commonly manifests with delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech or thinking, and social or occupational impairment. The condition typically requires long-term multimodal treatment.

Symptoms are often classified as positive (delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking), negative (flat affect, reduced speech, social withdrawal), and cognitive (problems with attention, memory, and executive function). Onset usually occurs in late adolescence or early adulthood, though it can appear at other ages.

The causes are multifactorial, involving genetic predisposition and neurodevelopmental factors, as well as environmental triggers such as obstetric complications, cannabis use, stress, and social determinants. Brain imaging studies show structural and functional differences in some individuals, but no single biomarker confirms the diagnosis.

Diagnosis follows ICD-10 or DSM-5 criteria, requiring at least one core symptom (delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech) with continuous signs for at least six months, including at least one month of active symptoms, and exclusion of mood disorders or substance-induced psychosis.

Treatment combines antipsychotic medication (typical or atypical) with psychosocial interventions, including psychotherapy, family education, social skills training, and supported employment. Early intervention and treatment adherence improve outcomes, reduce relapse risk, and support functional recovery.

Geðklofi affects about 0.3–0.7% of people worldwide. Prevalence and course vary by region and culture. In Iceland, as elsewhere, care is provided within national mental health services, with an emphasis on early detection, community support, and stigma reduction.