At this point in time, schizophrenia is not curable. It is a lifelong disorder. However, it is definitely treatable. Profound advances in the medication of schizophrenia allow us to greatly reduce positive symptoms, such as delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized behavior. Unfortunately, we have fewer tools to treat the negative symptoms. The severity of the illness will vary from individual to individual, however, and some people respond better to treatment than others. Many people with schizophrenia can live in the community, enjoy social relationships, and even perform volunteer or part-time work. The vast majority of people with schizophrenia will need to take psychiatric medication indefinitely, however, to control psychotic symptoms and remain as functional as possible.