subject: How To Live And Cope With Schizophrenia [print this page] Schizophrenia is a mental disorder which has no permanent cure. Its symptoms can be dormant in one moment while severely aggravated in other moments, depending on the effectiveness of the medications and treatments the Schizophrenic patient is taking. Schizophrenia is very detrimental as it takes away loved ones, family, friends and sometimes one's ability to make a living. In order to live life again, it is important for Schizophrenic patients to learn how to cope this dreadful disorder. Following are some of the suggestions which can be used for coping and living with Schizophrenia.
Acceptance of the Reality
The patient must admit the fact that he is suffering from Schizophrenia. Usually, a Schizophrenic patient denies his suffering. He thinks that people are lying to him; this is because of basic human tendency of refusal to things which prove one wrong. As the same time, Schizophrenia patient suffer from hallucinations which make it extremely challenging for him to differentiate between real life and illusion.
To handle this situation, families must lend their supporting hand to manage his medication taking and making sure he attends his psychotherapy session. The patient should also be sent for group therapy where he is made to realize that if he admits that he is suffering from the mental illness, it will make his life and others around him far easier. The patient who has admitted to reality is more likely to take his medications on time, discuss openly during psychotherapy sessions and gain the most out of all his treatments.
Knowledge about Schizophrenia
Knowledge about Schizophrenia is no doubt very important in order to cope with it. With better knowledge and understanding of the mental disorder, the patient will be in better capacity to cope and live with Schizophrenia. Family members will also be more understanding of the situation and response better to the patient. Therefore, it is important for the patient and his family members to know about the signs, symptoms and treatment of Schizophrenia.
Living independently in a safe neighborhood
A Schizophrenic patient whose family members refuse to take care of him either due to lack of understanding or lack of funds can possibly live in an independent setting depending on the severity of his condition. However, it is vital for him to take his medication and visit his psychotherapist on time. If possible, the neighbors should help the Schizophrenic patient in case he misses on his medications and the symptoms become worse.
Living with Family or in a Hospital
It is advisable for a Schizophrenic patient to live with his family or in a hospital whenever possible. This is so that family members or medical professionals can keep track of the patient and make sure that he is taking his medications, attending group therapy sessions and meetings his psychotherapist on time. They can also keep track of the patient's behavior and see if it has improve over time.
A Schizophrenia patient is less susceptible to paranoid attack if he gets love, affection and support from various people around him; it definitely makes it easier for him to live and cope with Schizophrenia.
