How long do most schizophrenia episodes usually last?

Is this the worst time of year for episodes? What causes them? During episodes, do schizophrenics say mean things that they don't mean to the people they love? The guy I was with is having an edisode, I believe. Its been going on since a few days before Thanksgiving when we had a fight. He told my friend that next week that he still loves me and sees a future with me. The week after that he told her that he still cares about me but doesnt want a relationship right now. I spoke to him the following day, and he seemed like a completely different person. I'm afraid. I really love him, and I don't want him out of my life

You mention an argument- do you know what his other "triggers" are?

Some people's illnesses are cyclical within a year or several years; some illeness are triggered by the anniversary of certain dates when they were traumatized; others are "triggered by stress, arguments, overwork, holidays, etc. Holidays which can be an especially bad time of year for people with mental illness.

The better you get to know him, the better you'll be able to tell what makes him more ill and how long the illness may last. As long as he doesn't become abusive, I'd say hang in there.

the best way to understand is to read about schizophenia.for a person with this illness set backs do happen. you know he cares about you know it is you that has to feel you care ALOT.dont be pushy that makes it worse.be their when he is in need. let him know you want to help. he will have a lot of back and forth anwsers for you. be strong..is he taking his meds. correctly or has the meds changed. even an increase or decrease in doseages can alter the chemisty of the mind.. it will work out..ive worked in a mental house for men.even when they are ready for the community life.set backs do happen.. good luck

I think it is commendable that you love a person with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. I don't know exactly what you mean by a "schizophrenic episode." I am a schizophrenic paranoid and I have known a lot of schizophrenics and other psychotic people. I know the disorder can strike all different types of personalities so they may have pre-psychotic behaviors that are all over the map. Hallucinations (which I think you mean by episode) for me were sudden, brief and like whoever was uttering the voices wanted to say something quickly and get "the hell out of there." But what is said in such hallucinations or what is seen in an apparition can alter a persons behavior for a very long time if not for life..

For example I experienced an auditory hallucination once in answer to a fervent prayer asking God "what should I do?" that was a chorus of many male voices yelling loudly in unison, "Kill Yourself!" I have never gotten over that episode.

What causes hallucinations is not known. I don't know if there is a "worse time of year" for episodes. It is the delusions (false beliefs) you come up with through rationalization to explain these hallucinations that may cause a marked change in behavior. I don't think there are many true beliefs about what constitutes a delusion. Science knows very little about schizophrenia.

Good luck with your schizophrenic friend, good mental health, peace and Love!