Living with a mental disorder or with someone struggling with one is never easy. Even in today’s world, with all the scientific and medical advancements, very little is known about these ailments. Maybe that contributes to the stigma revolving these illnesses; however, with more light shed on these problems, more treatments surface.
Schizophrenia is one such illness that knows no cure. It is a serious illness where the individual’s perception of reality is altered. A person may have a hard time telling what’s real from fiction, may experience hallucinations, delusions, or disoriented thoughts, speech, or behavior.
Schizophrenia has no permanent cure, but many treatments and medications have surfaced and proven effective in controlling the negative effects. Schizophrenia Rehabilitation is not as bad as it may seem and could help the patient immensely.
How to make Schizophrenia better
If you or someone you love is dealing with Schizophrenia, it is helpful to keep these things in mind-
-
Medication and psychological therapy need to be administered for the best results. One of the two is not always effective.
-
Medications to manage anxiety and depression help the patient.
-
Having a partner or support system and a 24/7 crisis system is vital.
-
Providing support to continue education, working, finding a house, and maintaining a generally healthy lifestyle goes a long way.
Treatment Options
There are three treatment options involved in Schizophrenia rehabilitation-
1. Psychological Treatment
Treatments like Therapy or counseling help people deal with schizophrenia and all the problems that may arrive with it. For this to work, an individual needs to embrace therapy and form a good rapport with their therapist, which is only possible if a good professional is chosen.
Different types of psychological treatment for schizophrenia rehabilitation include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or CBT, Psychoeducation, or Family Psychoeducation.
2. Electroconvulsive Therapy, ETC
This type of treatment is introduced to individuals dealing with severe symptoms of schizophrenia. If recommended, your doctor must explain exactly how it looks and can answer any questions you have.
3. Medication
Medication for schizophrenia mostly includes antipsychotics targeted to reduce or clear hallucinations or delusions.
The medication works best when combined with therapy, as only one or the other will not work effectively.
Living with someone with Schizophrenia
If anyone you love struggles with schizophrenia, there are many things you can do to establish a support system.
-
Focus on the person’s strengths and likes; make them feel at ease by not divulging in stressful conversations or activities.
-
Remind them of their role as a family member or friend and make them feel wanted.
-
Enroll in a psychoeducation program to be more aware of the signs.
-
Learn the signs of a psychotic episode and be prepared.
-
Learn how to motivate and encourage the person to do tasks themselves.
-
Keep track of any medical appointments, and make sure you don’t miss them.
-
Have one designated member like a family member or a partner who will support them when and if they need it. This person must be available and ready to help whenever the need arises. They should also be aware of mood disorders and be able to deal with these.
-
Encourage them to partake in activities that keep the mind and body active.
-
Ensure they always have support after a hospital visit. Try not to leave them alone because the first week after Schizophrenia Rehabilitation is the hardest.
It is not always easy living with a mental disorder, but many great psychologists and therapists work endlessly to ensure a normal and smooth life.
Rehabilitation or therapy is not effective and will not work if the person struggling refuses to seek help. It must be a personal choice, not a forced one. However, if they pose a serious threat to themselves or those around, ensure that you have the contact numbers to call during an emergency.