How to Help Someone Who Has Schizophrenia Disorder

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By mizchulita
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Schizophernia Disorder

When a loved one gets hit with schizophrenia, it can be really hard for friends and family members to cope with. Here are some things you can do to help.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Insurance is helpful

Step 1

Determine if the person really has schizophrenia. Certain drugs, such as LSD, can mimic the symptoms of schizophrenia. If the person does not have a formal diagnosis, but meets the criteria, immediately make an appointment so that he or she can be assessed.
Step 2

Remember that to the person with schizophrenia, the delusions that they are experiencing are very real. Do not argue with the person about their delusions, as this may make them feel upset, and perhaps escalate the situation in a violent way.
Step 3

Talk to the person in a comforting, nonthreatening way. Watch your body language and eye contact. Sitting side by side is a way that may feel more comfortable to the person with schizophrenia.
Step 4

Although this may be counter-intuitive, agree with the person. If they are afraid of the CIA, you can say something like, "Yes, the government can be scary."
Step 5

If the person becomes agitated, try to change to subject to something benign. Doing something active with the hands, such as playing cards, can be a helpful distraction to someone suffering from schizophrenia.
Step 6

If the agitation increases and you feel that you, individuals around you, or the person with schizophrenia is at risk, don't hesitate to call 911. When you do, inform them that the person has a mental illness and is not using drugs.
Step 7

Schizophrenia rarely goes away without medication. Help the person get medical help, and encourage him or her to take the medication that was prescribed.
Step 8

Remember that once stabilized, many people with schizophrenia and related disorders go on to lead lives that are quite normal.

Comments

starlet67 said

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on 4/8/2009 Good guidelines for helping someone cope with Schizophrenia! Great tips and warnings also!

Barry331 said

on 1/22/2009 Great Info-Be VERY careful with Paranoid Schizophrenics off their meds,Everyone!

on 12/26/2008 I really appreciate you including step 1. I have known people that were coming up and down, on and off of drugs that were MISdiagnosed with, Schizophrenia, Schizoeffective disorder, ADHD and Bipolar disorder...all from different doctors about the SAME person. The doctors knew he was using street drugs and still diagnosed him with these mental disorders. Then, they prescribed drugs that were just as bad, if not worse than the street drugs. Now, after becoming a Christian and beinf OFF of it ALL for 5 years, he is back to his normal self. No delusions and holding a job for 3 years.