According to DSM-5, the total duration of disturbance required for a diagnosis of schizophrenia, including prodromal and residual phases, is:

• A At least 1 month
• B At least 3 months
• C At least 2 years
• D At least 6 months ✓

Explanation

DSM-5 requires Criterion A symptoms for at least 1 month (less if successfully treated), but the overall disturbance must persist for at least 6 months, which may include prodromal or residual periods with negative symptoms or attenuated positive symptoms. One month alone defines the active-phase minimum, three months has no role in DSM-5, and two years was relevant to older ICD chronicity conventions rather than current DSM criteria.

Reference: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, DSM-5-TR ed.

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