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Schizophrenia typically follows a predictable pattern, which usually develops within the first 5 years of illness. Before that, psychotic episodes may be difficult to predict. The pattern of illness often stays the same throughout your lifetime, although it can change.

• Some people have only one or two psychotic episodes. Others have psychotic episodes throughout their lives.
• Many people have short relapses. A few have severe symptoms all the time.
• Some people have relapses only during stressful times in their lives.
• Some have more psychotic episodes as they grow older. Some have fewer.