How to Treat Schizophrenics
Schizophrenia is one of the most debilitating mental health disorders. Marked by delusional and disordered thoughts, hallucinations, paranoia and withdrawal from society, successful treatment of schizophrenia requires lifelong adherence to medication regiments and therapy techniques. Since there are also many types of schizophrenia, it can also be quite difficult to treat. That said, schizophrenia research and medication have made major strides in recent years. While there is no cure for schizophrenia, modern treatments can control many of the most severe symptoms and allow schizophrenics to function in society like never before.
This guide will focus on ways that those suffering from schizophrenia or friends/family members of schizophrenics can receive the most effective treatments available.
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Things You'll Need
- Access to the proper doctors and professionals Appropriate schizophrenia medication
Instructions
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Schizophrenia Treatment Options
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Know what type of schizophrenia you or your loved one suffers from. The most common types of schizophrenia are paranoid schizophrenia (characterized by delusions and auditory hallucinations), catatonic schizophrenia (marked by fluctuating periods of catatonic behavior and hyperactive behavior) and disorganized schizophrenia (characterized by illogical behavior and difficulty following basic thought patterns). Schizophrenia treatments and medications vary depending on the type of schizophrenia present.
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Find a psychiatrist who specializes in the specific type of schizophrenia you or your loved one suffers from. A good psychiatrist will be able to recommend a medicinal schedule and also refer you to psychologists, social workers or case managers who specialize in certain aspects of your treatment. Since schizophrenia is a complex disease in which symptoms can vary over time, a varied team of professionals will ensure the most effective treatment.
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Decide what medications to take. Most people who suffer from schizophrenia take several different medications at once to respond to the various symptoms. Because the range of schizophrenia symptoms fall into "positive" symptoms (the creation of things that aren't there, e.g., hallucinations) and "negative" symptoms (an overall withdrawal from society), the range of medications must attack both sides of the symptom equation. Since many of these medications can produce serious side effects like tardive dyskinesia (a disease characterized by involuntary rapid movements, such as muscle jerks), it can sometimes take awhile before your psychiatrist finds the best balance for you.
Schizophrenia medications fall into two main categories: typical antipsychotics and atypical antipsychotics. Typical antipsychotics include Haldol, Thioridazine and Fluphenazine. Atypical antipsychotics include Quetiapine, Clozapine and Paliperidone. Although antipsychotics can have a greater overall effect in treating both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia, they are also more expensive.
Many schizophrenics also use antidepressants and mood stabilizers to target some of the negative (withdrawal) symptoms of schizophrenia. -
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Enhance your medication therapy with other forms of therapy. Both individual and family therapy sessions with a psychiatrist will help you and your family adjust to the challenges, lifestyle challenges and financial burdens that come with schizophrenia and schizophrenia treatment. Through the use of behavioral therapy, cognitive therapy and interpersonal therapy, many people who suffer from schizophrenia can make great strides to re-acclimate themselves to society. In addition, rehabilitation therapists will help schizophrenics and their family members readjust to more independent ways of living and working.
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Be patient and persistent. Since proper schizophrenia treatments can be quite effective, many schizophrenics may assume that they are better after awhile and will stop taking the necessary medication. The cessation of therapy can prompt the reemergence of symptoms and significantly delay the treatment process.
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Join a support group. Adhering to a treatment plan can be easier if you have the support of other schizophrenics who can motivate you. Although independent living can be achieved with the proper treatment, cutting off loved ones is a mistake, as friend and family circles are often the best support groups.
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Tips & Warnings
If you or a loved one has any of the signs and symptoms of schizophrenia, consult a doctor. In addition, look for resources online or at your local library to help educate you and your family about the various manifestations of schizophrenia.
Schizophrenics are advised to remain from alcohol, drugs and smoking. Smoking can make schizophrenia medication less effective, while drugs and alcohol can exacerbate schizophrenia symptoms. Often schizophrenia symptoms can become quite severe and lead to dangerous behavior (including suicidal tendencies). In cases such a these, hospitalization can help stabilize the symptoms and is highly recommended.
