Schizophrenia is a chronic, severe mental health disorder characterized by disturbances in thought processes, perceptions, emotions, and behavior. Symptoms may include hallucinations, delusions, disorganized speech, social withdrawal, and impaired functioning. Treatment typically involves antipsychotic medications, psychotherapy, and supportive services. From a life insurance underwriting perspective, schizophrenia is associated with increased mortality and morbidity due to higher risks of suicide, accidents, substance abuse, and poor adherence to medical care. Severity, treatment history, stability, and level of functioning all play major roles in underwriting decisions.

When schizophrenia is disclosed on an application or discovered in medical records, underwriters request detailed psychiatric histories, including hospitalizations, medication regimens, and reports from treating providers. Applicants with well-controlled symptoms, good treatment adherence, and stable support systems may sometimes qualify for heavily rated coverage, but recent hospitalizations, ongoing psychosis, or suicidal behavior often lead to postponement or decline. Advisors must handle discussions with empathy and confidentiality, helping clients understand why coverage may be limited and exploring group, guaranteed issue, or simplified issue options where available. Proper handling of schizophrenia cases balances sensitivity with realistic expectations about insurability.