tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19241712179545461132023-11-15T06:59:29.998-08:00Managing SchizophreniaManaging Schizophrenia Blog: Schizophrenia Guide with Schizophrenia facts, introduction, definition, meaning, statistics, case study, symptoms, signs, triggers, causes, effects, outlook, treatment, cure, medications, side effects, myths, misconceptions, overview, relapse, and tips and information for families and caregivers of the mentally ill, Schizophrenia patients, or SchizophrenicsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1924171217954546113.post-9308756599741732292010-07-26T08:15:00.000-07:002012-03-16T06:11:25.759-07:00Schizophrenia Introduction<b>Schizophrenia Introduction</b><br />
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How does knowledge make us better families or caregivers for the person with Schizophrenia?<br />
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Learning as much as we can about Schizophrenia can help us become more effective and loving families or caregivers, mainly because, it facilitates our own coping with the situation of Schizophrenia. Our ability to cope, in turn, enables us to better help the person with Schizophrenia cope as well.<br />
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This Schizophrenia blog provides families and caregivers an overview of Schizophrenia. It lists some basic facts and guidelines, as well as practical tools that can be used to lead individuals with Schizophrenia towards recovery.<br />
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Moreover, <b>Schizophrenia information</b> lends to greater insight not only into the limitations entailed in the illness of Schizophrenia, but also into the person's vast potentials, which are often left unrecognized.<br />
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As you read through this Schizophrenia blog, it is essential to keep in mind that Schizophrenia is a real mental health illness that requires patience and committed attention. It is a complex condition brought on by no one's fault,only by physical causes.<br />
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It is also important to remember that drug treatment should be administered along with other forms of therapy to address issues that cannot be managed by medicine alone.<br />
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Next: <a href="http://managingschizophrenia.blogspot.com/2010/07/myths-about-schizophrenia.html"><i><b>Schizophrenia Myths</b></i></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1924171217954546113.post-42906721329917403612010-07-26T08:10:00.000-07:002010-07-27T23:34:47.644-07:00Myths about Schizophrenia<b>Myths about Schizophrenia</b><br />
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<b><i>Schizophrenia Myths and Misconceptions </i></b><br />
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1. Is schizophrenia a split personality?<br />
- No. Too many people have the idea that someone with Schizophrenia can appear perfectly normal at one time and suddenly change into a different person. This is nonsense. We misuse Schizophrenia in two different ways. By it we may mean 'having mixed or contradictory feelings about something.' This is just part of human nature - a much better word is 'ambivalent.' Just as commonly. we may mean that someone behaves in very different ways at different times. Again, this is part of human nature.<br />
- It is not that 'schizo' means 'split' or 'phrenia' refers to the 'mind.' Schizophrenia does<i> not</i> mean 'spit personality.' Schizophrenia is a brain dysfunction due to chemical imbalances. Split personality on the other hand, is whereby an individual develops different 'personalities' to cope with difficult life situations.<br />
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2. Schizophrenia is not a real disease?<br />
- No. It is a brain-related dysfunction considered as a real disease that requires medical help. In fact, Schizophrenia is not rare. About 1 of every 100 people will have it sometime during early adulthood or later.<br />
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3. Are Schizophrenia medications addictive?<br />
- No. Taking medications for Schizophrenia is not habit-forming. Medicines designed to reduce they symptoms of Schizophrenia are not addictive. There are some brands of medicine that cause side effects but are nevertheless, not habit-forming.<br />
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4. Can medications stop once symptoms improve or disappear?<br />
- No. Prescribed medications must be taken right away every day, although symptoms may improve or some may even totally disappear. Medicine intake should continue as usual or relapse can occur. Remember that Schizophrenia cannot totally be cured, but only managed via medication throughout the person's life.<br />
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5. Does medicine alone improve Schizophrenic symptoms?<br />
- No. Medicine helps improve physical symptoms associated with Schizophrenia. But because the disorder affects other life areas, such as one's social and emotional well-being, additional therapies are needed to address issues like regaining self-esteem, learning new job skills, and dealing with other people.<br />
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6. Persons with Schizophrenia have low intelligence?<br />
- No. Schizophrenia can affect people of any level of intelligence. However, poor control of symptoms or multiple occurrences may prevent one to function as well as he or she used to.<br />
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7. Are people with Schizophrenia unpredictable?<br />
- On the whole, no more than anyone else.<br />
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8. Doesn't Schizophrenia make people dangerous?<br />
- People who suffer from Schizophrenia are rarely dangerous. Any violent behavior is usually sparked off by street drugs or alcohol. This is exactly the same as for people who don't suffer from Schizophrenia.<br />
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9. People with Schizophrenia are always disabled and cannot live on their own?<br />
- No. The process may take a little longer than usual, but persons with Schizophrenia are capable of independent living. with proper treatment, many are able to go back to school, find a job, and become productive citizens, as well as engage in long-lasting relationships.<br />
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10. Schizophrenia never gets better.<br />
No. 1 in 4 or 5 people will get better within the first five years of treatment.<br />
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Next: <a href="http://managingschizophrenia.blogspot.com/2010/07/schizophrenia-definition-basic.html"><b><i>The Definition or Meaning of Schizophrenia</i></b></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1924171217954546113.post-70898931528780281212010-07-26T08:05:00.000-07:002012-03-16T06:12:02.072-07:00Schizophrenia Definition / Basic Schizophrenia FactsSCHIZOPHRENIA DEFINITION / BASIC SCHIZOPHRENIA FACTS<br />
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<b>Schizophrenia Meaning</b><br />
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What is Schizophrenia?<br />
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Schizophrenia is a medical illness classified as a mental disorder called <b><i>psychosis</i></b>. Schizophrenia is characterized by difficulty in processing information due to chemical imbalances in the brain. Its first onset is between 15-30 years old. Symptoms first appear in late adolescence or early adulthood. This may be rapid with symptoms developing within several weeks or it may be slow, developing over months or years.<br />
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Because it affects the thought processes primarily, Schizophrenia has also been called a<b><i> thinking disorder</i></b>.<br />
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Studies suggest risk factors are hereditary, but the causes may be due to the interplay of several other factors.<br />
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<b>Schizophrenia Statistics / Case Study</b><br />
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Schizophrenia affects one in every hundred people. This is about the same for many different places and peoples across the world. It seems to be more common in city areas.<br />
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Schizophrenia affects men and women equally. It rarely starts before the age of 15, but can develop at any time after this. Men with Schizophrenia usually notice the first signs in their late teens or early twenties. Women are often first affected a little later, in their twenties or thirties.<br />
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Next: <a href="http://managingschizophrenia.blogspot.com/2010/07/schizophrenia-symptoms.html"><i><b>Schizophrenia Symptoms </b></i></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1924171217954546113.post-41812828942817469342010-07-26T08:00:00.000-07:002010-07-27T23:33:05.251-07:00Schizophrenia Symptoms<b>Schizophrenia Symptoms</b><br />
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What are the common symptoms?<br />
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Schizophrenia affects primarily the thinking process, which influences the development of inappropriate feelings and actions. Among the common symptoms are:<br />
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I. POSITIVE SYMPTOMS<br />
- Positive symptoms are the unusual experiences that are part of Schizophrenia. Positive symptoms relate to the senses, particularly suspiciousness and strange thoughts, hallucinations like "hearing voices" and disorganized speech or behavior. They sometimes happen in other severe mental illnesses.<br />
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1. <i><b>Hallucinations</b></i><br />
- Hallucinations are false, unrealistic sensory perception. They are therefore described as experiences affecting the senses – like auditory, visual, olfactory, tactile, like hearing voices, smelling foul odors, etc. Thus, hallucination happens when the person hears, smells, feel, or see something when there isn’t anything, or anybody actually there to hear, smell, feel, or see. In Schizophrenia, the most common hallucination is hearing voices. The voices can sound so real that a person becomes convinced they are truly coming from outside of him. The voices are not imaginary, but they are created by one’s own mind. The brain mistakes one’s own thoughts for real experiences happening outside of the person.<br />
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2. <i><b>Delusions</b></i><br />
- Delusions are a particular kind of unusual belief. These are false, unrealistic beliefs, like believing that someone is trying to harm you or is conspiring against the person (<i><b>paranoia</b></i>), or that he is a famous person or have special powers (<i><b>grandiose</b></i>).<br />
- Delusions can be unusual because it is uncommon or unknown in ones culture. It can be unusual because the person believes it very strongly without having any evidence to support it. Either way, other people find that they can’t really discuss it with the person with Schizophrenia. If someone asks him to explain why he has come to believe this, he can’t say why or his reasons don’t make sense to them – he “just knows.”<br />
- People often talk about “<b><i>paranoid</i></b>” delusions. “<i><b>Paranoia</b></i>” is just another word for feeling persecuted or harassed. The person may have ideas of persecution that, at first sight, seem quite reasonable. For example, he may start to believe his partner is unfaithful, even though other people can see nothing to suggest that this is true. On the other hand, he may have ideas that are more unusual, like feeling that someone or the government is spying on him. He may believe that he is being harassed by the neighbors who are using special rays, or that he is God’s special messenger. Delusions of persecution can be especially upsetting for one’s family, if the person sees them as his persecutors.<br />
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3. <b>Disordered, Muddled, Jumbled, Loose Thinking (or “<i>Thought Disorder</i>”)</b><br />
- The person may find that it is becoming harder to think clearly – he can’t understand what another person says. If he is at college, he will find it difficult or impossible to keep up with class discussions. If he is at a meeting at work, he just can’t keep his mind on the topic. It seems there is a lot going on in his head.<br />
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4. <i><b>Delusion of Control </b></i><b>or Feelings of Being Controlled</b><br />
- These are feelings that someone or something is controlling the person’s thinking or behavior. When this happens, it can feel as though someone is taking thoughts out of the person’s mind, or putting their thoughts into it. It can feel as though someone is trying to take over the person or controlling him – this is extremely unpleasant and disturbing. He may feel as though his body is being taken over, or that he is being controlled like a puppet or a robot. It may get to the point where his whole personality seems under the influence of an alien force or spirit. This is a terrifying experience, which the person explains in different ways. In ‘high-tech’ societies, the person may tend to blame radio, television, or laser beams, or believe someone has installed a computer chip in his brain. In traditional and religious communities, the person may blame witchcraft, angry spirits, God, or the devil.<br />
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II. NEGATIVE SYMPTOMS<br />
- Negative symptoms are less obvious than positive symptoms. Negative symptoms are difficult to explain to others and affect socialization. The individual may withdraw from people, feel weak and lazy, and have difficulty responding to feelings. These may be characterized by the following:<br />
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o Marked apathy, loss of drive, loss or reduced energy to do things. The person’s interest in life, energy, emotions, and ‘get-up-and-go’ just seem to drain away. He may not bother to get up or go out of the house. It can be difficult to wash or tidy up, or to keep his clothes clean. <br />
o Refusal to talk (<i><b>catatonia</b></i>) or reduced speech. The person may feel that he has nothing to say.<br />
o Blunting of emotion. It’s more difficult to feel excited or enthusiastic about anything. <br />
o Social withdrawal, avoidance of people (even family members) and social interaction at home, at work or in the neighborhood. The person may feel uncomfortable with people.<br />
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- Other people can find it hard to understand that negative symptoms are actually symptoms, and that the person is not just being lazy. This can be upsetting, both for the family and for someone with Schizophrenia. The family can feel that he just needs to pull himself together – he can’t explain that he can’t.<br />
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III. COGNITIVE SYMPTOMS<br />
- Cognitive symptoms are problems with learning and concentration. Cognitive symptoms may involve impaired memory or abstract thinking, language disturbance, and inattention. There may be severe:<br />
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o Difficulty in concentrating on things like finishing or understanding an article in the newspaper or book or watching a TV program to the end. At work he can’t seem to concentrate on his job.<br />
o Difficulty in learning new information like directions or procedures.<br />
o Difficulty in getting thoughts together logically and coherently. Trouble explaining.<br />
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IV. DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS<br />
- Depressive symptoms pertain to the person's moods and may manifest in suicidal thoughts, guilt feelings or anxiety. Depressive symptoms may also be characterized by insomnia or hyperinsomnia.<br />
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<b>Does everyone with Schizophrenia have all these symptoms?</b><br />
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No. Someone can hear voices and have negative symptoms, but may not have thought disorder. Some people with delusional ideas seem to have very few negative symptoms or depressive symptoms. If someone has mainly thought disorder and negative symptoms, the problem may not be recognized for years.<br />
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Next: <a href="http://managingschizophrenia.blogspot.com/2010/07/schizophrenia-causes.html"><i><b>Schizophrenia Causes</b></i></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1924171217954546113.post-45245788570290783612010-07-26T07:55:00.000-07:002010-07-27T23:30:53.010-07:00Schizophrenia Causes<b>Schizophrenia Causes </b><br />
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<b>What Causes The Symptoms?</b><br />
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Schizophrenia symptoms happen when clinical messengers in the brain are out of balance. This means that the messages within the brain are not properly processed, resulting to confusion often exhibited as unusual thoughts, sensations, and behavior. The only way to relieve these symptoms is to remedy the imbalance. <br />
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We don't know for sure what causes the chemical imbalance in the brain leading to Schizophrenia. It is likely to be a combination of several different factors, which may be different for different people.<br />
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As previously stated, Schizophrenia is a medical illness. No single cause has been identified but a number of factors are known to contribute to the development of the illness.<br />
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1. <i>Genetic Predisposition</i><br />
- Schizophrenia is known to run in families. About one in ten people with Schizophrenia has a parent with the illness. If a parent has Schizophrenia, the child has 10% chance of developing the condition. (This is almost the same risk for diabetes.) But if neither of the parents has Schizophrenia, a person's chance of developing it is more likely just one in a hundred. This difference is probably caused by heredity (genes), not upbringing.<br />
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For example, identical twins have exactly the same genetic makeup as each other, down to the last molecule of DNA. If one identical twin has Schizophrenia, the brother or sister has about a 50:50 chance of having it too, even if they are brought up in different families.<br />
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Non-identical twins don't have the same genetic makeup as each other. If one of them has Schizophrenia, the risk to the other twin is just slightly greater than for any other brother or sister.<br />
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Research suggests that heredity provides just about half the explanation of the illness. We have not yet discovered the gene, or combination of genes, responsible for Schizophrenia.<br />
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2. <i>Biochemical Factor </i><br />
- Several studies have established certain biochemical substances in the brain, called neurotransmitters, specifically serotonin and dopamine, that are associated with the development of the symptoms of Schizophrenia.<br />
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3. <i>Brain Damage</i><br />
- New ways of producing pictures of the brain show that some people with Schizophrenia have larger spaces in the brain than people who don't suffer from the illness. This suggests that some parts of the brain may not have developed quite normally. Problems during birth might be responsible - these can affect the supply of oxygen to the baby's brain. It is also possible that, during the early months of pregnancy, virus infections can cause subtle brain damage.<br />
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4. <i>Stress</i><br />
- Stress often seems to happen shortly before an episode of Schizophrenia. This could be a sudden event like a car accident, bereavement, or moving home. It can be part of everyday problems, such as difficulty with work or studies. Stress in not the cause of Schizophrenia, but it may help to bring it on in someone who is vulnerable. Long-term stress, such as family tensions, can also make it worse.<br />
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5. <i>Psychodynamic / Psychosocial Factor</i><br />
- Disturbed family interaction and life events have been extensively studied and have been shown to have strong association with the onset of the illness and relapse. At one time it was fashionable to believe that Schizophrenia was caused by problems within the family. There is no evidence to support this idea. However, if the person already has Schizophrenia, family tensions can make it worse. These days family intervention schemes can help.<br />
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6. Street Drugs and Alcohol<br />
- Sometimes the use of street drugs like ecstasy (e), LSD (acid), metamphetamines (shabu), and cannabis (marijuana) seems to bring on symptoms just like those of Schizophrenia. We know that amphetamines can bring on symptoms just like those of Schizophrenia, but they usually stop when you stop taking the amphetamines. We don't know whether these drugs can trigger off a long-term illness, but they may do in someone with a predisposition. It does seem that using street drugs and alcohol can make matters worse in some people who already suffer from the illness. Many people use street drugs or alcohol to cope with their symptoms or, sometimes, the side effects of anti-psychotic medication, as a form of self-medication.<br />
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Next: <a href="http://managingschizophrenia.blogspot.com/2010/07/schizophrenia-effects.html"><i><b>Schizophrenia Effects</b></i></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1924171217954546113.post-60287682982725685742010-07-26T07:50:00.000-07:002010-07-27T23:29:25.957-07:00Schizophrenia Effects<b>Schizophrenia Effects</b><br />
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What are the effects? What inner dynamics tend to develop?<br />
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Loneliness and isolation are big issues with Schizophrenia. Persons with Schizophrenia tend to find their symptoms getting worse around others, thus, prefer to be alone.<br />
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Frustration or anger is likely due to inability to do things they used to do prior to the illness, such as getting a job or having steady relationships.<br />
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Feelings of shame may surface, as well as blaming themselves and others for their condition. It is necessary to recognize that having Schizophrenia is not a choice, but an illness brought about by physical causes beyond control. No fault, no shame, no blame.<br />
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Next:<a href="http://managingschizophrenia.blogspot.com/2010/07/coping-with-schizophrenia.html"><i><b> Coping with Schizophrenia</b></i></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1924171217954546113.post-71938931958555195042010-07-26T07:45:00.000-07:002010-07-27T23:28:53.393-07:00Coping with Schizophrenia<b>Coping with Schizophrenia</b><br />
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It is often difficult for persons with Schizophrenia and their families to accept that the illness is Schizophrenia. At the height of the symptoms, the person with Schizophrenia in fact claims that he is not sick. However, as the reality of the illness starts to be clearer, because the person's behavior is disorganized and he shows hallucinations and delusions, strong emotional reactions start to be experienced. These reactions can be expected. They are shared by people around them, especially their families who oftentimes are also right away burdened by the illness.<br />
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<b>What are the common reactions to the diagnosis of mental illness in the family?</b><br />
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a. Denial of the illness<br />
b. Grief/ Sadness<br />
c. Guilt <br />
d. Fear of stigmatization<br />
e. Confusion<br />
f. Failure<br />
g. Shame / losing face<br />
h. Anger<br />
i. Relief<br />
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The family of the person with Schizophrenia, and later the person himself, experiences a strong emotional burden as these reactions are experienced. This burden is especially experienced by the family, as they go through their daily lives and they care for the person with the illness at the same time. However it is important to understand that it is necessary to address the burden, find relief from it, in order to cope with the illness and to comply with the treatment.<br />
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<b>What can be done to cope with this emotional burden?</b><br />
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An important step in managing Schizophrenia is for the person with the illness and the families to recognize their feelings and reactions. This will help them cope with those feelings. It is helpful to remember that these are normal expected reactions, in the same way as those experienced by those who have serious medical illness. However, coping with these emotional reactions can drain energy and make progress in treatment difficult. One way to start feeling better is to start working on ways to manage this burden.<br />
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<b>How to Cope with Schizophrenia</b><br />
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It should be kept in mind that symptoms can be controlled, and that staying well can be achieved by the person with Schizophrenia, through the help of the family and the doctor. It is to be understood that the illness is nobody's fault. However the person with the illness and his family have the choice of staying well once he/she has recovered.<br />
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Next: <a href="http://managingschizophrenia.blogspot.com/2010/07/schizophrenia-outlook.html"><i><b>Schizophrenia Outlook</b></i></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1924171217954546113.post-83595468849743898982010-07-26T07:40:00.000-07:002010-07-27T23:28:25.793-07:00Schizophrenia Outlook<b>Schizophrenia Outlook</b><br />
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What is the outlook?<br />
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Schizophrenia can make it hard for someone to work, to study, and to get on with other people. It can make it hard to live an independent life, and it can cause a lot of distress in families, BUT:<br />
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Treatment and help for Schizophrenia are much better today. Before 1950, many people with Schizophrenia spent most of their lives in mental hospitals. Now, many people with Schizophrenia never have to go into a hospital.<br />
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Many people who suffer from it are eventually able to settle down, work and make lasting relationships. New treatments and ways of helping Schizophrenia mean that the outlook is now much brighter.<br />
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In the long term:<br />
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o Around one in five will have troublesome symptoms that will continue to interfere with their lives.<br />
o Two out of three will get better, but will still have some symptoms. They will have times when their symptoms get worse.<br />
o One in four people will get better within five years of their first episode of Schizophrenia.<br />
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The longer Schizophrenia is left untreated, the greater its impact on the person's life. The sooner it is noticed and he gets help for it, the better.<br />
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Next: <a href="http://managingschizophrenia.blogspot.com/2010/07/schizophrenia-treatment.html"><i><b>Schizophrenia Treatment</b></i></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1924171217954546113.post-58088248311449957672010-07-26T07:30:00.000-07:002010-07-27T23:47:45.497-07:00Schizophrenia Treatment<b>Schizophrenia Treatment</b><br />
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Is there a treatment for Schizophrenia? What is the cure?<br />
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There is no single treatment for Schizophrenia because this is an illness that has been brought about by many factors, which as earlier mentioned are stress, drugs or alcohol, and biochemical, genetic, and psychosocial factors . Hence, the treatment of Schizophrenia must be planned so that these factors are addressed. it can be safely said therefore, that a a combination of treatment strategies is necessary to reduce, if not totally eliminate, the symptoms, prevent relapse, and minimize the disability from the illness.<br />
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At first, if the person has symptoms of Schizophrenia, he may need to stay in a hospital for a while for thorough assessment and treatment. However, if the illness is caught early enough, this may not be necessary. The person would need to see a psychiatrist because Schizophrenia needs expert help. Even if the person does come into the hospital, it will usually be for only a few weeks. Afterwards, any help or treatment he needs can be given at home.<br />
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<b>Compulsory Treatment</b><br />
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Someone with Schizophrenia may not always realize they are ill. They may refuse treatment when they badly need it. In such cases, a <i><b>consent of admission</b></i> from a relative may suffice in the admission of such person in a mental health facility.<br />
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<b>Does treatment take more than medicines?</b><br />
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Medications (medicines) help the most disturbing symptoms of the illness. However, they do not provide a complete answer. Medication is an important first step, which makes it possible for other kinds of help to work.<br />
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Support from families and friends, other forms of treatment and services such as supported housing, daycare and employment schemes also play a vital part in getting better. Aside from pharmacological treatment, psychotherapy and psychosocial rehabilitation may be improve the condition.<br />
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Next: <a href="http://managingschizophrenia.blogspot.com/2010/07/schizophrenia-medications.html"><i><b>Schizophrenia Medications</b></i></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1924171217954546113.post-6491421175254791292010-07-26T07:25:00.001-07:002010-07-27T23:47:17.458-07:00Schizophrenia Medications<b>Schizophrenia Medications</b><br />
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What is the Pharmacological Treatment for Schizophrenia?<br />
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There are now effective medications that are designed to restore the biochemical imbalance and therefore reverse the thinking disturbances earlier described for the person with Schizophrenia. These medications relieve symptoms like agitation and restlessness, anxiety, hallucinations and delusions, or confused thinking. With the improvement on the thought processes, the person not only starts to think relevantly and coherently, he also expresses emotions and behaves appropriately. It is important that these medications are taken regularly because relapse will surely happen with non-compliance.<br />
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Medications play a significant role in the treatment of Schizophrenia. It causes relief from symptoms, as well as prevention of relapse. If helps the person feel better and appropriately. Hence, it is important that patients and families understand how the medicines work. It is especially important for them to know the possible side effects and how to manage them. More importantly, they should remember that the regular intake of medications is crucial to control the symptoms and in turn, to recovery.<br />
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<b>Medications:</b><br />
1. Typical Antipsychotics<br />
2. Atypical Antipsychotics<br />
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<b>How do these medicines work to relieve symptoms?</b><br />
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These medicines work by adjusting the imbalance of chemicals in the brain. Brain chemicals, known as <i><b>neurotransmitters</b></i>, are responsible for carrying information from one brain nerve cell to another nerve cell so one can receive information from the senses, process, and act on it. Medicines work to correct brain chemical imbalance and restore clear thinking, appropriate emotion, and overall behavior.<br />
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<b>How are these medications taken?</b><br />
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Medication for Schizophrenia (<b><i>psychotropics</i></b>) comes as tablets, capsules, or syrup. We can all find it hard to remember to take tablets several times a day, so there are now some that you only need to take once a day.<br />
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If the person finds it hard to take tablets everyday, he may find it easier to take anti-psychotic medication as an injection. These are called <b><i>depot injections</i></b> and are given weekly or every 2,3, or 4 weeks. On the other hand, taking tablets gives the person more control over his medication and its effects. At the moment, depot injections are only available using the older typical antipsychotics.<br />
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<b>Is it safe to take other medicines together with Schizophrenia medications?</b><br />
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Some nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines can interfere with the medicine(s) for Schizophrenia. For example, some cold preparations can worsen drowsiness and tremors side effects. Some can make the illness worse. If one needs to take the medicines for another health problem, consult first with a doctor, who will prescribe the appropriate medicine that will not interfere with the symptoms of Schizophrenia.<br />
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<b>Can the person drink alcoholic beverages while taking medicine(s) for Schizophrenia?</b><br />
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Alcohol and street drugs are especially dangerous when combined with medicines for Schizophrenia. These substance block the mechanism of action of these medicines and may cause serious side effects such as drowsiness, tremors, and low blood pressure. Since alcohol and drugs have direct effects on the brain, they may cause relapse or worsening of the mental symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, restlessness, and agitation.<br />
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<b>What are the common side effects or unwanted effects of these medications? </b><br />
<br />
Like any medicine, there are side effects that should be recognized. Always consult the doctor if side effects are noted.<br />
<br />
The following are the known side effects: blurry vision, dizziness, drowsiness, restlessness, feeling slowed down, sexual dysfunction, dry mouth, abnormal body movements, constipation, difficulty urinating, weight gain, sun burn, skin rash.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<b>What are the serious side effects that should be watched out for?</b><br />
<br />
The occurrence of the following side effects are considered serious. Fortunately, they are not common and they occur at different rates with various medicines and in different people. Although these rarely occur, it is important to be familiar with them so that appropriate action can be taken immediately:<br />
<br />
1. Low White Blood Cell Count (<i><b>Agranulocytosis</b></i>)<br />
- Without enough white blood cells, the body may not be able to fight infection. Since this side effect can be dangerous, be sure to report high fever and sore throat to the doctor as soon as possible.<br />
2. Overheating (<i><b>Hyperthermia</b></i>)<br />
- These medicines may make the person feel overheated, especially in hot weather. Drink plenty of water when this is experienced.<br />
3. Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome<br />
- Muscles get very stiff over one to three days, high fever develops, and there is a feeling of confusion. If these symptoms start to be felt, seek medical help immediately by going to the emergency room of a hospital.<br />
4. Seizures<br />
- Some medicines make people more prone to having seizures. If the person has a seizure, he must seek medical help immediately.<br />
5. Involuntary Muscle Movements (<b><i>Tardive Dyskinesia</i></b>)<br />
- It usually occurs after months or years of taking antipsychotic medicine. This includes involuntary movements of the tongue and mouth, like chewing and sucking motions, or lip smacking. Sometimes the arms and legs can be affected. Tell the doctor immediately if the person has any of these symptoms.<br />
6. Uncontrolled Muscle Spasms (<i><b>Dystonia</b></i>)<br />
- This side effect feels like a charley horse or writer's cramp. It may start with a neck spasm that leads to a stiff neck and stiff tongue. The eye muscles may be involved, causing the eyes to roll up and back. If this side effect occurs, call the doctor immediately or go to the emergency room. The doctor can prescribe another medication to prevent this reaction from occurring.<br />
<br />
"Side effects" associated with treatments for Schizophrenia should be reported right away to the doctor who will determine prescription. The doctor might also adjust the dosage or change the medicine.<br />
<br />
<b>How well does Schizophrenia medications work?</b><br />
<br />
These medications, although they work well for many people, are NOT a cure. The symptoms of Schizophrenia often come back. This is much less likely to happen if the person carries on taking medication even when he feels well. this is why a psychiatrist will usually suggest that medications be taken for a long time. If the person wants to stop his medication, he needs to discuss this with his doctor. He should usually reduce his medication gradually.<br />
<br />
<b>What happens if medications are stopped?</b><br />
<br />
If the person stops taking the tablets, the symptoms of Schizophrenia will usually come back - not immediately, but usually within six months.<br />
<br />
Next: <a href="http://managingschizophrenia.blogspot.com/2010/07/psychotherapy-and-psychosocial.html"><i><b>Psychotherapy and Psychosocial Rehabilitation for Schizophrenia </b></i></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1924171217954546113.post-15337866383333638672010-07-26T07:20:00.000-07:002010-07-27T23:24:51.309-07:00Psychotherapy and Psychosocial Rehabilitation for Schizophrenia<b>Psychotherapy and Psychosocial Rehabilitation for Schizophrenia</b><br />
<br />
<i><b>Psychotherapy Treatment for Schizophrenia</b></i><br />
<br />
Psychotherapy is a direct psychological intervention, which aims to provide emotional support to the person with Schizophrenia. This treatment allows the person to establish a trusting relationship with his therapist, doctor, or mental health professional. This restores his self-esteem and self-confidence, the two important traits he seemed to have lost during his illness. Consequently, the person talks about the difficult circumstances in his life, which have not only stressed him but have caused his breakdown, and starts to manage them.<br />
<br />
<i><b>Psychosocial Rehabilitation for Schizophrenia</b></i><br />
<br />
This intervention is equally important as medications or psychotherapy in the treatment of persons with Schizophrenia. This includes many activities aimed at making the person know throughout the illness that not only is his recovery dependent on his compliance to treatment with medications and supportive psychotherapy, but also involves the environment around him. This environment includes his family, neighbors, and co-workers if he has a job or co-students if he is in school.<br />
<br />
Some of the identified psychosocial rehabilitation programs include:<br />
<br />
1. <i>Psychoeducation for families</i><br />
- to help families know about the illness and manage the illness including how to maintain recovery of the person suffering from Schizophrenia and preventing relapse.<br />
2. <i>Social interaction program</i><br />
- to help the person:<br />
o enhance friendships and relationships with others<br />
o learn how to keep stress at a comfortable level<br />
o communicate thoughts more easily<br />
o find activities that he/she may enjoy in his/her free time<br />
3.<i> Occupational rehabilitation</i><br />
- to assist the person living with Schizophrenia in learning the skills needed to be successful in the living, working, and learning environments of his/her choice.<br />
4. <i>Support groups</i><br />
- to work with and learn from others who have similar problems; to give and receive support from others.<br />
5. <i>Community resources</i><br />
- to help patients and family find community activities and resources that may be helpful.<br />
<br />
All people suffering from Schizophrenia need understanding and support to help them towards better recovery. Family members and caregivers play a very crucial role in the recovery of persons with Schizophrenia.<br />
<br />
Next: <a href="http://managingschizophrenia.blogspot.com/2010/07/managing-schizophrenia-for-person-with.html"><i><b>Managing Schizophrenia</b></i></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1924171217954546113.post-43790130351525090702010-07-26T07:15:00.000-07:002010-07-28T00:01:00.547-07:00Managing Schizophrenia<b>Managing Schizophrenia (For the Person with Schizophrenia and His Family)</b><br />
<br />
<b><i>How to Manage Schizophrenia</i></b><br />
<br />
"Will I ever get back to normal?"<br />
<br />
Although Schizophrenia is known to be characterized by recurrences and remissions, may persons with the illness have been known to have maintained recovery and lead productive and meaningful lives. Here are some useful tips at staying well:<br />
<br />
The person with Schizophrenia must visit the doctor regularly and discuss with him steps to take to maintain his state of recovery from his symptoms as well as discuss with him his daily activities and how best he can use this to structure his day, and more importantly find meaning in it.<br />
<br />
o Take medications regularly as prescribed<br />
o Take control of one's life<br />
o Do only one thing at a time instead of doing everything at once<br />
o Avoid people, places, and things that one feels uneasy about<br />
o Do something new only when feeling up to it<br />
o Keep one's sense of humor<br />
o Break big tasks into small, easy-to-handle doable activities<br />
o Ask for needs even if feeling afraid at first<br />
o Solve problems while they're still small<br />
o Spot early warnings of possible crisis and do something about it right away<br />
o Celebrate success everyday<br />
o Continue to participate and be involved with the family at all times<br />
o Try to join activities in the community so that friendships can be established and social interactions can make one feel acceptable in the community.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Getting Back to Normal</b><br />
<br />
What happens after positive symptoms have been controlled?<br />
<br />
Schizophrenia can make it difficult to deal with the demands of every day life. Sometimes this is because of the symptoms. Sometimes, the illness may have gone on for so long that the person may just have got out of the habit of doing things for himself. Ordinary things - washing, answering the door, shopping, making a phone call, or chatting with a friend - can seem very difficult.<br />
<br />
Medication can help up to a point but the person needs to be able to get other types of help to have the best chance of getting better. These should be provided by one's local mental health team, and social services and voluntary organizations in the area. <br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Support from the Community Mental Health Professionals</b><br />
<br />
Occupational therapists can help the person with Schizophrenia be clear what his skills are and what he can do. They can also show him how to improve things he isn't doing so well . They can work out ways of helping him to do more for himself and help him improve his social skills.<br />
<br />
Clinical psychologists may be available to give cognitive and behavioral therapy. This can help the person feel better about himself and to learn new ways of solving problems. We now know that cognitive therapy can also help the person control troublesome hallucinations or delusional ideas. Other kinds of psychotherapy may be helpful if there are things that the person needs to talk over in greater depth.<br />
<br />
Psychiatrists are available to prescribe the person's medications and discuss with him the benefits, side effects or any questions that he has regarding his illness.<br />
<br />
<b>The Schizophrenic Person's Family</b><br />
<br />
It may be hard to understand what is happening if a son or daughter, husband or wife, brother or sister, develops Schizophrenia. They may have become odd, distant, or just different from how they used to be. They may be avoiding contact with people and may seem to be less active. If they have delusional ideas, they may well keep quiet about them. If they are hearing voices, they may suddenly look away from you as if they are listening to something else. When you speak to them, they may say little, or be difficult to understand. Their sleep pattern may change so that they stay up all night and sleep during the day.<br />
<br />
Sometimes, no one realizes what is happening. There may be wonder if this behavior is just rebellious or perverse. It can happen so slowly that, only when you look back can you see when it started. It can be particularly difficult to recognize these changes if the illness develops during teenage years. This is a time when young people are changing anyway, and often experimenting with new freedoms and lifestyles.<br />
<br />
If it is realized that Schizophrenia is the problem, one may start to blame oneself and wonder "Was it my fault?" The person may wonder if anyone else in the family is going to be affected, what the future holds or how they can get the best help.<br />
<br />
Families also need advice. What do they need to do? Someone with Schizophrenia will be more sensitive to stress, so it is helpful to avoid arguments and to keep calm - perhaps easier said than done.<br />
<br />
The psychiatric or mental health team needs to listen to the worries and concerns of families. It can advise on drugs and their side effects, as well as suggesting small manageable tasks that may help recovery.<br />
<br />
<b>How can families affected by Schizophrenia cope more easily?</b><br />
<ol><li>Learn as much as possible, as soon as possible about the illness.</li>
<li>Seek the help of health care professionals who can be your allies.</li>
<li>Contact self-help groups for families affected by Schizophrenia.</li>
<li>Accept that it is a complex illness which requires professional help.</li>
<li>Know the origins of the pressures which may be affecting the family.</li>
<li>Pay great attention to the needs of the other family members.</li>
<li>Take heed that unconditional self-sacrifice leads to effective caring.</li>
<li> Be aware that way too much time with the person can worsen matters.</li>
<li>Maintain your own friendships and activities outside the home.</li>
<li>Work towards independence for your relative with Schizophrenia </li>
<li>Discover that the ability to look at things differently leads to coping.</li>
<li>Take very good care of yourself too.</li>
</ol>Next: <a href="http://managingschizophrenia.blogspot.com/2010/07/guide-for-caregivers-of-schizophrenic.html"><i><b>Guide for the Caregivers of Schizophrenic Persons </b></i></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1924171217954546113.post-7679164036545257922010-07-26T07:10:00.000-07:002010-07-27T23:23:19.285-07:00Guide for the Caregivers of Schizophrenic Persons<b>Guide for the Caregivers of Schizophrenic Persons</b><br />
<br />
How can you help someone with Schizophrenia cope better?<br />
<br />
Caregivers and families play a vital role in helping their loved ones with Schizophrenia cope with the illness. The <i><b>4-S System</b></i> is a plan of action that suggests practical tools that work in real daily life:<br />
<br />
1. <i><b>Structure</b></i><br />
o Develop predictable and nonthreatening routines<br />
o Break tasks into small, more manageable steps<br />
o Make gradual changes to routine activities to prevent boredom<br />
o Keep decision-making functions simple and let the person decide<br />
<br />
2. <i><b>Stimulation</b></i><br />
o Introduce something new especially when interest is shown<br />
o Start with simple everyday activities with familiar people<br />
o Don't over-expect, such as immediate response or enjoyment<br />
o Praise every positive achievement, but don't overdo it<br />
<br />
3. <i><b>Socialization</b></i><br />
o Encourage interaction even if contact is brief or superficial<br />
o Encourage family, friends, and others to maintain contact<br />
o When appropriate, factually advise on issues of sexuality<br />
<br />
4. <i><b>Support</b></i><br />
o Involve siblings in coping with the illness<br />
o Prepare children of parents with Schizophrenia for better coping<br />
o Call in a third party to help settle disagreement among family<br />
<br />
<b> Handling Especially Difficult Situations</b><br />
<br />
What can be done if the person with Schizophrenia becomes restless and agitated?<br />
<br />
There are occasions when the person with Schizophrenia may be extremely agitated, manifesting difficult behaviors. Here's what to do:<br />
<br />
o Do not confront him in any way<br />
o Remain calm<br />
o Stay in control<br />
o Keep a close watch on him<br />
o Do not leave him alone<br />
o Make sure that he will not hurt himself or anyone<br />
o Ensure that he has no access to sharp or dangerous objects<br />
o Consult your mental health professional right away<br />
<br />
What is the best way to handle difficult situations with a person with Schizophrenia?<br />
<br />
The general approach to difficult situations is best defined and summarized by the<i><b> 3 C's</b></i>:<br />
<br />
1. <i><b>Communicate </b></i>directly, honestly, and with understanding. Do not crowd, rush, or touch the person.<br />
2. <i><b>Calm </b></i>and safe environments must be provided. Remove items that may pose threat or danger.<br />
3. <i><b>Control </b></i>the situation by being firm, quietly assertive and reassuring.<br />
<br />
<b>What to do if suicidal thoughts are noted</b><br />
<br />
Suicide is a serious problem, especially for people with Schizophrenia. Almost 10% of persons with Schizophrenia commit suicide.<br />
<br />
If there are thoughts of suicide, it is critical that the person gets immediate help. The person with Schizophrenia should speak to members of the family and doctor. An increase in medication, use of antidepressant, and psychological support will help patient overcome this. Hospitalization may be needed.<br />
<br />
The family or caregivers should take their patient seriously if the latter expressed suicidal thoughts and consult the doctor right away,<br />
<br />
Next: <a href="http://managingschizophrenia.blogspot.com/2010/07/schizophrenia-relapse-what-to-do-in.html"><b><i>Relapse - What to Do in Case of Relapse</i></b></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1924171217954546113.post-39704971542075464502010-07-26T07:05:00.001-07:002010-07-27T23:22:43.283-07:00Schizophrenia Relapse - What to Do in Case of Relapse<b>Schizophrenia Relapse - What to Do in Case of Relapse</b><br />
<br />
What do you do to handle relapse? How do you prevent it?<br />
<br />
A <i><b>relapse </b></i>is the return of symptoms or worsening of <i>residual symptoms</i> (symptoms that haven't completely disappeared).<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Identifying Warning Symptoms and Preventing Relapse</b><br />
<br />
The following are early warning symptoms that should be watched out for:<br />
<br />
o Having trouble sleeping at night<br />
o Finding it harder than usual to concentrate<br />
o Forgetting things more often than usual<br />
o Feeling nervous or worried all the time<br />
o Feeling afraid of people, places, or things that you usually feel comfortable with<br />
o Withdrawing from others or staying in the room a lot<br />
o Hearing voices or seeing images<br />
o Having thoughts that people are talking about you or laughing about you<br />
<br />
Recognizing these warning symptoms is the best way one can catch a relapse. If these symptoms are noted to start coming back, consult the doctor right away. It's better to overcome relapse symptoms before the person gets too sick and have to be hospitalized.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Causes of Relapse</b><br />
<br />
What causes a relapse?<br />
<br />
There are many reasons why people who have recovered from Schizophrenic symptoms may have a relapse:<br />
<br />
o They may not be taking their medicine the right<br />
o They may be under more stress than usual like the occurrence of <i>crisis </i>or adverse life experiences<br />
o They may not be getting enough rest and sleep<br />
o They may be taking another medicine for a different health problem (like a cold or a muscle strain)<br />
o They may have started drinking alcohol or using street drugs<br />
<br />
<b>Is Relapse the same as Crisis?</b><br />
<br />
The occurrence of relapse may cause a <i><b>crisis </b></i>in the person with Schizophrenia, his family, or co-workers if he is working. But there are other <i><b>crises </b></i>that may happen to the person or their families. Such are Schizophrenia <b><i>trauma</i></b>.<br />
<br />
A <b><i>crisis </i></b>happens when the person's usual ways of coping are insufficient to adequately respond to his stressful life situation at that moment. This, therefore, is not only related to the relapse for the illness, but to other events like illness, separation, death in the family, loss of finances or livelihood, or adverse life events like disaster.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Can Stress cause Relapse?</b><br />
<br />
One important thing that can be done to avoid relapse is to manage stress. Stress can certainly affect the way one feels. Too much stress can eventually lead to a crisis. This is because the person's usual way of coping are now inadequate to cope and to respond satisfactorily to life stresses. That's why it's so important to find ways to keep stress at a manageable level. There are many things that can be done to relieve stress and feel better.<br />
<br />
<b>Managing Stress</b>:<br />
o Discuss this right away with a trusted family member, friend or psychiatrist<br />
o Get as much emotional and physical rest as possible<br />
o Assess with a family member, friend or psychiatrist whether the usual ways of coping with crisis is already not helpful at this time.<br />
<br />
<b>Preventing Relapse</b><br />
<br />
What can be done to reduce the risk of Relapse?<br />
<br />
The best way to reduce chances of having a relapse is taking good care of oneself. There are many things that can be done to keep oneself feeling better. Here are tips from other people what say they're feeling better:<br />
<br />
o "I go to sleep and wake up at the same time everyday."<br />
o "I feel better when I eat regularly three times a day." <br />
o "I take a walk almost everyday."<br />
o "If I feel really upset, I listen to music."<br />
o "I met a friend with the same problem that I have, and we talk to each other everyday."<br />
o "I stay away from my friends who like to drink because I can really get into it when I'm with them."<br />
o "I now know I have to keep taking my medicine everyday because things got really bad when I stopped the last time."<br />
<br />
<b>Handling Relapse</b><br />
<br />
What can be done in case of Relapse?<br />
<br />
o Notify the doctor, psychiatrist, or a mental health professional as soon as you can.<br />
o Attempt to decrease any known environmental stressor.<br />
o Minimize any changes in routine.<br />
o Keep the environment calm, safe, and as predictable as possible<br />
o Family members who are able to identify an impending relapse should discuss this with their ill relative and implement the steps to prevent it as earlier described.<br />
<br />
Next: <a href="http://managingschizophrenia.blogspot.com/2010/07/schizophrenia-overview.html"><i><b>Schizophrenia Overview for Families or Caregivers of the Mentally Ill or Schizophrenic Person</b></i></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1924171217954546113.post-43932364535318710832010-07-26T07:00:00.000-07:002010-07-28T00:03:52.526-07:00Schizophrenia Overview<b>Schizophrenia Overview</b><br />
<br />
This overview is meant to increase awareness among families, caregivers, health workers, and other community public service providers about Schizophrenia or <i><b>psychosis</b></i>, and the care of the severely mentally ill or emotionally ill, or Schizophrenic persons.<br />
<br />
This is also meant to help us know about the prevention of relapse of symptoms of Schizophrenia or <b><i>psychosis</i></b>.<br />
<br />
<b>False Belief or Myths People Have About Schizophrenia or Psychosis</b><br />
<br />
o Schizophrenia or psychosis is due to "possession by demons" or witchcraft or other supernatural causes.<br />
o Patients pretend or invent their behaviors.<br />
o Drugs, alcohol, or bad company are the only causes of Schizophrenia or psychosis.<br />
o Schizophrenic patients are more violent than non-schizo patients.<br />
o Schizophrenia or psychosis is contagious.<br />
o Schizophrenics are criminals.<br />
o Schizophrenics should be locked up in the hospital for life.<br />
o Schizophrenics are useless. <br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>So what is Schizophrenia or Psychosis?</b><br />
<br />
Schizophrenia or <i><b>Psychosis </b></i>is a major mental illness just like any other physical illness. It is <i>major </i>because it has a great effect on every aspect of a patient's life at home, school, and at work.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>And what causes Schizophrenia or Psychosis?</b><br />
<br />
<br />
o Schizophrenia or Psychosis is caused by imbalance of brain chemicals<br />
o Schizophrenia often develops during periods of stress<br />
o The risk for developing Schizophrenia or Psychosis is greater if you have a parent, brother, sister, identical twin, or any blood relative what developed Schizophrenia or Psychosis.<br />
<br />
<b>Schizophrenia symptoms</b> involve disturbances in thinking, feeling, and behavior, like:<br />
<br />
o hearing voices when no one is around<br />
o strange beliefs<br />
o unusual speech<br />
o strange behavior<br />
o emotional disturbances<br />
o lack of energy or initiative<br />
<br />
As a result of the above disturbances, people may have the following <b>Schizophrenia effects</b> or difficulty:<br />
<br />
o managing daily activities, including leisure and recreation<br />
o managing social interactions, work, or studies<br />
<br />
<b>What is the Treatment for Schizophrenia or Psychosis?</b><br />
<br />
o Schizophrenia or Psychosis is usually a life-long illness. However many of the the unpleasant symptoms can be reduced with medications.<br />
o Family members and friends can help their patients go back to their usual activity and handle stress more effectively.<br />
<br />
<b>Families may ask professional help for these early warning signs of Schizophrenia or Psychosis:</b><br />
<br />
o Irritability<br />
o Suspiciousness<br />
o Self isolation<br />
o Poor sleep and appetite<br />
o Confusion<br />
o Lack of concentration<br />
o Inability to perform usual daily activities<br />
o Violent emotions or reactions<br />
<br />
<b>What should the family or caregiver do during periods of relapse or severe symptoms?</b><br />
<br />
o Recognize the early warning signs:<br />
- Irregular sleeping and eating patterns<br />
- Irritability<br />
- Refusal to take medications<br />
- Reappearance of disturbances like:<br />
<ul><li>hearing voices when no one is around</li>
<li>strange beliefs</li>
<li>unusual speech</li>
<li>strange behavior</li>
<li>emotional disturbances</li>
<li>lack of energy or initiative</li>
</ul>o If your patient is showing the above signs, do not hesitate to call his doctor or bring him back to his doctor even if the patient is not scheduled for his check-up. <br />
o Bring the patient immediately for consultation at the nearest emergency psychiatric section for immediate and rapid care.<br />
o Observe the patient's sign and symptoms at home daily and bring him for outpatient consultation as advised by the physician or as necessary.<br />
o Directly supervise the patient's intake of medications.<br />
<br />
<b>Patients fail to take their prescribed medications when they are:</b><br />
<br />
o living alone or unsupervised<br />
o experiencing side effects<br />
o taking other or multiple medications<br />
o undergoing very long-term treatment<br />
o know to refuse medication in the past<br />
<br />
<b>What should the family or caregiver do when their patient improves?</b><br />
<br />
o Continue directly supervising the patient's daily intake of medications.<br />
o Check prescriptions for (changes in) the daily dosage of tablets as prescribed<br />
o Identify immediately the time when the patient refuses to take his daily medications or refuse to return for follow-up check-up.<br />
o Ask other family members or friends to check for any left-over tablets or tablets hidden or thrown away.<br />
o Never force the patient into doing activities which he/she cannot or is not yet ready to do.<br />
o Never criticize or insult the patient.<br />
o Praise the patient for his good behavior or for even small accomplishments.<br />
o Make sure you know the date of the next check-up of the patient and bring him on the scheduled date.<br />
<br />
<b>The emergency psychiatric care unit of a hospital can help Schizophrenics and their families by providing these services:</b><br />
<br />
o Emergency psychiatric care for the severely disturbed patient<br />
o Out-patient psychiatric follow-up care<br />
o Family education<br />
o Occupational and recreational therapy<br />
<br />
Next: <a href="http://managingschizophrenia.blogspot.com/2010/07/schizophrenia-introduction.html"><i><b>Schizophrenia Introduction </b></i></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0