Anosognosia and schizophrenia - a reminder.

OBJECTIVE

To remind the clinical and legal practitioner that anosognosia is a recognised facet of schizophrenia with implications for capacity assessment and for relating effectively with people who experience it.

CONCLUSIONS

The term anosognosia emphasises that, in schizophrenia, lack of capacity is the result of a neurological deficit. Under-appreciation of this may place that person at risk of a preventable harm.