Reviewed by: Pavel Kornilov, MD, psychiatrist · updated 6 Nov 2026
Key facts
- ICD-10 code
- F20
- Who leads care
- a psychiatrist experienced in managing psychotic disorders
- Format
- scheduled video consultations and consultations for family members
- Duration
- appointment 30–50 minutes; frequency from weekly to monthly
- Confidentiality
- information is protected by medical confidentiality under Kazakhstan law
- When it is urgent
- aggression, refusal to eat, a threat to self or others — call 103 or 112
- Outcome
- stabilization, relapse prevention and preservation of social functioning
What you should know
Schizophrenia belongs to the group of schizophrenia spectrum disorders (F20 in ICD-10, 6A20 in ICD-11). The illness usually begins in adolescence or young adulthood and presents with positive symptoms (delusions, hallucinations), negative symptoms (reduced motivation, emotional flatness) and cognitive impairment. Its course may be episodic or continuous, and the outlook depends largely on how consistently treatment is followed and on the social support available.
The cornerstone of care is long-term maintenance treatment combined with psychosocial interventions. Online psychiatrist consultations in Zharkent do not replace the initial in-person diagnosis, but they are effective for ongoing follow-up: the doctor assesses the patient’s mental state, adherence to treatment, side effects and early warning signs of relapse. This format reduces the number of missed appointments and helps maintain a steady connection with the treating specialist.
Signs That Need a Psychiatrist’s Attention
- hearing voices or having other perceptions that people around do not notice
- a firm belief in being persecuted, having a special mission or being controlled by outside forces
- incoherent, fragmented speech and difficulty following a train of thought
- withdrawal from social contact, loss of interest in study, work and hobbies
- emotional flatness, an expressionless face and monotone voice
- neglect of personal hygiene and everyday household tasks
- sleep disturbances and unusual behavior that loved ones cannot understand
If at least two points apply and the state lasts longer than two weeks, it is worth seeing a specialist. Phone consultation is free. If life is at risk, call 112 or 103.
What Causes Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is considered a multifactorial disorder in which hereditary predisposition and features of nervous system development both play a part. The risk is higher in people whose close relatives have schizophrenia spectrum disorders, but heredity alone does not determine whether the illness develops. Neurobiological research points to disturbances in dopamine and glutamate signaling in the brain.
Environmental factors that increase the risk of onset include complications of pregnancy and childbirth, the use of cannabis and other psychoactive substances in adolescence, chronic stress and social isolation. These factors are not causes in the direct sense, but they can trigger the onset of the illness in people who are predisposed. Understanding these models of origin reduces stigma and feelings of guilt in patients and their families.
How Online Care for Patients Is Organized
Before the consultation, it is helpful to gather discharge summaries, details of current treatment and notes on how you have been feeling. During the video appointment, the psychiatrist assesses mood, thinking, any psychotic experiences, sleep, medication side effects and the level of everyday activity. With the patient’s consent, family members can join the conversation. A regular online psychiatrist consultation in Zharkent helps detect early signs of deterioration and adjust the plan in good time.
An initial diagnosis, especially during a first psychotic episode, requires an in-person examination, laboratory tests and often imaging or other instrumental studies to rule out organic causes. In acute psychosis, dangerous behavior or refusal of food and water, emergency help via 103 or 112 is needed and, if indicated, hospitalization. Involuntary treatment is provided only in the manner established by the law of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
How we help
Maintenance medication
The core treatment is antipsychotic medication, which reduces positive symptoms and lowers the risk of relapse. The choice of medication and its form, including long-acting injectable formulations, is made by the doctor with tolerability in mind. Online monitoring makes it possible to detect side effects promptly; prescribing and issuing prescriptions follow the rules established by Kazakhstan law.
Psychoeducation
The patient and family learn about the nature of the illness, the role of regular treatment, the early signs of relapse and what to do if they appear. According to international guidelines, family psychoeducation reduces the frequency of hospital admissions. The video format is convenient for sessions with several family members who live in different places.
Cognitive behavioral therapy for psychosis
CBTp helps the patient relate differently to distressing experiences, reduce the distress caused by voices and delusional ideas, and develop coping skills. The method is used alongside medication and is recommended by clinical guidelines. Sessions can be held remotely when the patient’s condition is stable.
Social rehabilitation
This work aims to restore communication skills and independence in daily life and to support a return to study or employment. The doctor helps build a daily routine, set achievable goals and maintain motivation. Where needed, recommendations are given on contacting social support services and rehabilitation programs.
Myths and facts
MythSchizophrenia means a split personality
FactThese are different conditions. Schizophrenia is characterized by disturbances in thinking and perception, whereas dissociative identity disorder belongs to a different group of disorders and is much rarer.
MythPeople with schizophrenia are dangerous
FactMost patients are not aggressive. The risk of violence rises mainly when the illness is untreated and when psychoactive substances are used; people with schizophrenia are far more often victims of violence themselves.
MythOnce you feel better, you can stop the medication
FactStopping treatment on your own is one of the main causes of relapse. Any reduction or change in treatment is carried out only under a psychiatrist’s supervision, gradually and with close monitoring of the patient’s condition.
How an online appointment works
- Message or callWrite on WhatsApp or call — our coordinator replies within minutes, day or night. You don't have to give your surname.
- Doctor and timeWe match you with a psychiatrist, addiction specialist or psychotherapist and agree on a time — often the same day.
- Video consultationA secure 50–60 minute video call: the doctor takes a detailed history and uses standardised scales if needed.
- Treatment planYou receive a clear summary, recommendations and a plan: what we do online and what needs an in-person visit or home call.
- Follow-upOnline follow-up sessions, messenger contact with your doctor, and treatment adjustments until you get a stable result.
Prices in Zharkent
| Urgent online psychiatrist consultation | 18 000 ₸ |
| Consultation for relatives | 15 000 ₸ |
| Psychiatrist home visit | 45 000 ₸ |
The final cost is agreed before treatment starts. Prices are in tenge and do not constitute a public offer.
Where to get help
An online consultation for “Schizophrenia care and consultations online” is available to people across Zhetysu Region 24/7 — from home, work or while travelling. For an in-person visit, Psychiatry Online in Zharkent has two branches: 186 Yuldasheva St., Zharkent and 171 Golovatskogo St., office 38, Zharkent. Doctor home visits: all city districts and nearby settlements.
Confidential and private
An online appointment in Zharkent is first of all about privacy: no clinic visit, no waiting room. A private room and headphones are enough. Data is stored in a secure system with restricted access and does not enter any state registry without legal grounds.
Questions and answers
Can schizophrenia be diagnosed online?
A definitive diagnosis, especially for the first time, is made after an in-person examination and after organic causes have been ruled out. An online psychiatrist can carry out a preliminary assessment, determine how urgent the situation is and what tests are needed, and then provide long-term follow-up.
How often are consultations needed?
While treatment is being selected or after a relapse — weekly or more often. In stable remission, a visit once a month or less often is usually enough. The doctor sets the frequency based on the patient’s condition, side effects and the support available in the family.
Can a family member reach out without the patient?
Yes. A relative can get advice on how to recognize a relapse, how to talk with their loved one and where to turn for help. Specific medical information about the patient can be discussed only with the patient’s consent or within the framework of the law.
What should I do if my loved one refuses treatment?
It is important to stay in contact without pressure or threats and to discuss specific difficulties rather than the diagnosis. The doctor will help you choose a strategy for the conversation. If there is a threat to life or dangerous behavior, call 103 or 112. Involuntary care is possible only on the grounds provided for by Kazakhstan law.
Is it possible to work and study with schizophrenia?
Many patients in remission successfully work, study and start families. Lasting results are supported by regular treatment, a healthy sleep routine, avoiding psychoactive substances and support from those around them. A psychiatrist helps plan a manageable workload and notice signs of overload early.
How is confidentiality ensured?
Consultations take place over a secure channel, and all information is protected by medical confidentiality. It is not shared with an employer, school or any other party, except in cases expressly provided for by Kazakhstan law. Patients in Zharkent can contact Psychiatry Online anonymously, giving only a first name for communication.
Where can I be seen in Zharkent?
Online — from anywhere in the city or region. In person — at two branches: 186 Yuldasheva St., Zharkent and 171 Golovatskogo St., office 38, Zharkent. Both are open 24/7; home visits cover all city districts and nearby settlements.
Sources and methodology
This page was prepared by the Psychiatry Online medical editorial team based on:
- International Classification of Diseases ICD-10 and ICD-11, World Health Organization
- Clinical diagnosis and treatment protocols of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan
- Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System”
- NICE (UK) and APA (US) guidelines on the treatment of mental disorders
- WHO recommendations on telemedicine and digital health
This information is for reference only and does not replace a consultation with a specialist. Editorial policy
