Schizophrenia Life Expectancy: Does Schizophrenia Shorten Lifespan?

Schizophrenia is a complex mental health disorder typically characterized by symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thoughts. While these symptoms can be challenging, and schizophrenia may have an impact on life expectancy, it does not necessarily affect maximum lifespan. Understanding the difference between schizophrenia life expectancy and lifespan, as well as the ways in which an individual with schizophrenia may improve their life expectancy, could be beneficial for those living with this disorder. If you’re living with schizophrenia, consider working with a therapist to address any concerns or challenges you may be experiencing.

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What is the difference between lifespan and life expectancy?

While the terms “lifespan” and “life expectancy” are often used interchangeably, each has its own distinct meaning. 

Lifespan can refer to the maximum number of years a specific species may live. According to the Guinness World Book of Records, the longest confirmed lifespan for a human was 122 years and 164 days, a record awarded to Jeanne Calment. While other lifespan claims have been made that exceed Calment’s, they typically lack evidence. Until an individual can provide significant proof that they have lived longer, it may be reasonable to set the current maximum lifespan for all humans as 122 years and 164 days. 

On the other hand, human life expectancy usually refers to the average amount of time a person lives. This average is often calculated based on the specific demographics of that person, including the population group to which they belong. For example, in 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated that the life expectancy for individuals in the U.S. was 76.4 years. Life expectancy can also vary based on several other factors, such as the following:

The presence of specific diseases, including those that may be classified as infectious or related to the immune system, may also impact how long a person lives. In addition, mental health conditions like schizophrenia could affect life expectancy. 

How does schizophrenia affect life expectancy? 

Research suggests that schizophrenia may reduce life expectancy, as individuals with schizophrenia generally live 15 to 20 years less than the general population. 

One scientific article published in 2022 stated that premature mortality in those with schizophrenia may be due to a variety of causes, including the following:

In addition to these causes, other factors may contribute to mortality in those living with schizophrenia. These factors may include alcohol and substance misuse, tobacco use (specifically smoking), and a sedentary lifestyle, as well as metabolic abnormalities and accelerated aging due to disease. Individuals with schizophrenia may also struggle to access quality medical care due to both the symptoms of psychosis and the stigma associated with the disorder. 

*If you or a loved one are experiencing suicidal thoughts, reach out for help immediately. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be reached 24/7 by dialing 988. 

How can individuals with schizophrenia improve their life expectancy? 

While there may not be a cure for schizophrenia or a guaranteed way to extend one’s life, there are several methods that may help an individual with schizophrenia improve their life expectancy. 

Avoiding substance misuse

Research suggests that individuals living with schizophrenia may be more likely to use, or misuse, certain substances. These may include the following: 

• 47% of people with schizophrenia may experience serious struggles with alcohol or substance use during their lifetime. This can be compared to 16% of the general population that generally experiences these struggles.
• 60% to 90% of those with schizophrenia may smoke cigarettes at some point in their lives.
• The lifetime prevalence rate for cannabis use in people with schizophrenia may be estimated to be between 17% and 83%, with a wide variation between studies.
• 15% to 50% of individuals experiencing schizophrenia may use cocaine.

In some cases, these rates may be three times higher than that of the general population. A substance use disorder can be problematic for individuals with schizophrenia for several potential reasons, including an increase in clinical exacerbations, poor global functioning, and non-complaisant with treatment. 

There are a variety of ways that an individual living with schizophrenia may avoid substance misuse. One potential method could be to utilize resources like the SAMHSA National Helpline, which can be reached by dialing 1-800-662-4257. This helpline is free and available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Callers may be directed toward local support groups, community-based organizations, and treatment facilities that can address substance misuse. 

Starting an exercise routine

Exercise may increase life expectancy for individuals with schizophrenia. One scientific article explored the use of exercise as a nonpharmacological adjunctive treatment. Researchers found that aerobic exercise may offset the side effects of antipsychotics and reduce the physical health struggles that can be associated with schizophrenia. 

These risks may include obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes. Potential reduction in these risks as a result of regular exercise may result in improved mortality rates. Exercise may also lead to increases in hippocampal volume and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, which may lead to improvements in negative symptoms, functional outcomes, cognition, neurogenesis, and synaptic plasticity. 

The type of exercise an individual with schizophrenia chooses may vary, and one should discuss which exercise options are right for them with their doctor. Some individuals may be capable of exercising in public settings, such as a gym or an exercise group. These groups may center around running, swimming, biking, or a variety of other aerobic activities. However, others may not be comfortable exercising outside of their homes. In these cases, it could be beneficial to use exercise equipment like a treadmill, though this may require a significant financial investment.

Are you concerned about the impacts of schizophrenia?

Talk about it with a licensed therapist

Seeking mental health services 

Although updated research may be needed, one scientific article suggested that psychosocial interventions, such as cognitive therapy, family intervention, assertive community treatment, psychoeducation, and social skills training, could reduce psychotic symptoms and relapse while improving long-term patient outcomes, such as remission, recovery, and illness progression.

While the article does not directly state that psychosocial interventions improve life expectancy, it may be reasonable to associate symptom relief and favorable outcomes with lower rates of mortality. 

Further research indicates that early-stage schizophrenia patients who receive a combination of psychosocial interventions and medication may have a better quality of life and level of social function, as well as a lower risk of relapse, than those who receive medication alone. 

Some individuals may not have access to in-person psychosocial interventions or therapy, including those who live in rural areas or regions that lack a sufficient number of mental health providers. It may also be difficult to find a schizophrenia specialist in your area, thereby necessitating significant travel or wait times for an appointment. In some cases, individuals may feel more comfortable attending sessions from their homes via phone, video, or online chat. In these situations, it may be beneficial to research potentially viable alternatives, such as online therapy.

According to one systematic review, preliminary evidence suggests that telephone, internet, and video conferencing may be feasible therapeutic modalities for people with schizophrenia. In addition, this evidence suggested that these modalities appeared to result in improved patient outcomes. However, it can be important to note that individuals experiencing acute psychosis may need to seek care in person.

Takeaway

While several factors can affect life expectancy, individuals with schizophrenia may experience higher premature mortality rates than the general population. This premature mortality can be due to a variety of causes, such as a higher risk of disease, homicide, or accidents. There may be ways to reduce the chance of shortened life expectancy, such as avoiding substance misuse, exercising, and seeking the help of a mental health professional in person or online.