Schizophrenia

Treatment:

Hospitalization is often required to prevent self-inflicted harm or harm to others, and to provide for the person's basic needs such as food, rest, and hygiene.

Antipsychotic or neuroleptic medications are used to control the symptoms of the illness. This group of drugs includes the phenothiazines, thioxanthenes, butyrophenones, dihydroindolones, and dibenzoxazepines. Drug treatment is continuous, as relapse of symptoms is common when medication is discontinued.

Psychotherapy may be helpful in certain situations. Family therapy is often helpful to assist relatives in coping with the affected individual.

Behavioral techniques used in a therapeutic setting, or in the home can help a person learn behaviors that will lead to social acceptance.

Expectations (prognosis):

Most people with this disorder are improved with medication, however, many are not able to function in a productive capacity. Group homes or structured living environments are beneficial for many individuals.

Complications:

• noncompliance with medication will lead to a relapse of symptoms
• physical illness may go undetected because the patient may not

complain of pain or symptoms

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider or mental health professional if:

• voices are telling you to hurt yourself.
• you are unable to care for yourself.
• you are feeling hopeless and overwhelmed.
• you feel like you cannot leave the house.
• you are seeing things that aren't really there.