Treatment For Schizophrenia
- MEDICATIONS: The medical treatment for Schizophrenia generally includes the use of drugs prescribed either as single medicines or in combinations. Anti-psychotic medicines, mood-stabilising medicines and anti-depressants are generally administered in treatment for Schizophrenia.
- However, these medicines have many side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, rigidity, persistent muscle spasms, tremors and restlessness, etc. in the long run, along with a risk of developing an addictive disorder.
PSYCHO-SOCIAL INTERVENTIONS: Psychosocial treatment for Schizophrenia helps the patients to deal with everyday challenges of life. The modules help in developing communication skills, improve performance in work, maintaining good relationships and taking care of oneself including hygiene, dressing, etc.
- Illness management: Patients can learn basic facts about treatment for Schizophrenia. If patients can identify early warning signs of relapse and taking an action to respond, they can learn to prevent relapses.
- Treatment for co-occurring substance abuse: Substance abuse is the most common co-occurring disorder in people with Schizophrenia. Aggressive management of such addictions works in a complimentary manner in treatment for Schizophrenia.
- Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation can help schizophrenics to function better in their communities in their daily life. This is done by social and vocational training. Rehabilitation programs can include career counseling and training, counseling for money management, and opportunities to practice communication skills.
- Family education: It is very essential that family members know as much as possible about Schizophrenia. A therapist can help family members learn about coping strategies and problem-solving skills.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy. This type of psychotherapy focuses on thinking and behavior. The therapist teaches people with Schizophrenia how to check the reality of their thoughts, how to "not listen" to their voices, and how to manage their symptoms in general.
- Self-help groups. Self-help groups have become quite common. Group members support and comfort each other. People in self-help groups know that others are facing the same problems, and that one is not alone.