Schizophrenia
Alternate Names : Schizophrenic Disorder
What are the treatments for the condition?
The goals of treatment are to:
make symptoms less severe
prevent a decline in function
provide support so the person can function at the highest level possible
There are three major components of treatment:
antipsychotic medications to reduce symptoms. They may help the person to be more effective and appropriate in society.
rehabilitation and community support activities to teach the skills needed to survive in society. These skills help an individual with schizophrenia to work, shop, manage a household, and get along with others.
psychotherapy, with regularly scheduled talks between the individual and a mental health professional. The sessions may focus on current or past problems, experiences, thoughts, feelings, or relationships. This may help the person understand and manage the illness, take medications, and manage stress.
Hospitalization may be needed at times if the person poses a danger to self or others.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Antipsychotic medications have many possible side effects. These include drowsiness, restlessness, muscle spasms, dry mouth, and blurry vision. The long-term side effects may include tardive dyskinesia. This disorder causes uncontrollable, random movements of the mouth, lips, and tongue. It sometimes affects the trunk, arms, and legs.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Most people with schizophrenia need some form of ongoing treatment for long periods of time, or for life. The outlook for an individual with this condition has improved over the past 25 years. Many people with schizophrenia improve enough with treatment to lead independent, satisfying lives. Group homes or structured living environments may be helpful for some individuals. A few people with severe forms of the disorder may need full time care in a safe and supportive setting.
How is the condition monitored?
Someone with schizophrenia needs ongoing monitoring and treatment. Symptoms may flare up and require hospitalization. Without treatment and medications, some people become quite psychotic and disorganized. These people may be unable to care for their basic needs, such as food, clothing, and shelter. All too often, a person with schizophrenia ends up on the streets or in jail, where he or she is unable to get effective treatment.
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