Schizophrenia is a mental health condition that causes a variety of symptoms including delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking, and social withdrawal. The illness affects all areas of a person’s life including health, relationships, job, and education. The good news is there are numerous treatment tools available that can aid those living with schizophrenia have happy, productive lives.
PSYCHOEDUCATION
Psychoeducation is provided to teach symptoms of illness, coping skills, crisis intervention, and other skills that help in managing day-to-day life. This type of education provides skills to help the individual live a productive and independent life.
ONE-ON-ONE COUNSELING
Working one-on-one with a counselor can help individuals find the best strategies for identifying triggers, managing symptoms of illness, and learning how to manage stress, anger, and mood disruptions. Since hallucinations and delusions can be managed in a variety of ways, a counselor can help pinpoint which techniques will work best for the client.
BUILDING SUPPORT
People with schizophrenia need a healthy support system. A counselor can help a client identify ways to build support from friends and family, address conflicts, improve communication, and identify other factors that will aid in better interpersonal skills.
FAMILY THERAPY
Family therapy can be utilized to address problems within the family structure that might exacerbate symptoms and lead to crises. This type of therapy can also be utilized to educate family members on the nature of the illness and how to offer the most effective support.
SUPPORT GROUPS
Support groups allow the individual an opportunity to work with others who have personally struggled with similar challenges associated with schizophrenia.
GROUP THERAPY
Group psychotherapy helps the client develop skills needed to interact and get along with others. This type of therapy can be utilized to learn communication and social skills and identify patterns that may negatively impact relationships with family and friends.
MEDICATION THERAPY
Medication therapy involves working with a medical team to help the individual find the best medication for his or her individual needs, identify side effects, and address concerns like weight gain and sleep disturbances. The team helps the patient monitor changes in symptoms and address side effects as they present.
With the support of a good mental health support team, people with schizophrenia can live full lives with minimal disruptions from illness. If you would like more information on managing symptoms of illness, contact us at Pandora’s House Psychiatry today.