Schizophrenia usually occurs when males are in their teens or early adulthood and in females when they are in their twenties and early thirties. The symptoms can be confusing to the individual when they begin. Hearing voices is one of the most common symptoms, but other terrifying symptoms can also occur. Some of these are feelings of persecution where the individual believes they are being watched, stalked or someone is trying to harm them. They may have hallucinations and delusions, along with an inability to form their thoughts into words that make sense to others. For more information on the symptoms and types of schizophrenia, please read How to Diagnose Schizophrenia.

This article on How to Treat Schizophrenia will not only discuss treatments for schizophrenia and medications available, but it will discuss how families can help their loved ones who are suffering from the illness. It will also discuss coping methods for the individual with schizophrenia. Children seldom develop schizophrenia, but symptoms and treatment are different than for adults and some of those will be discussed. Sometimes schizophrenia occurs along with bipolar disorder. For more information on bipolar disorder please read How to Diagnose Bipolar Disorder and How to Treat Bipolar Disorder. There is also some information on Hallucinations, Delusions and Paranoia which might also be helpful in understanding schizophrenia.

Schizophrenia in children is uncommon and hard to diagnose early. The symptoms differ in children and adolescents from adult symptoms. Some of the symptoms in children are hallucinations, odd speech and behavior, bizarre thoughts and ideas, inability to distinguish dreams and television from reality, confusion, moodiness, paranoia, anxiety and fear, problems with making and keeping friends, isolation, and lack of good personal hygiene.http://www.aacap.org/cs/root/facts_for_families/schizophrenia_in_children

Neurodevelopmental damage is greater in children than in adults. Long before the psychotic symptoms described above occur, the child may have delayed functioning and speech. In the beginning of the illness, children often have symptoms of a pervasive developmental disorder (e.g., autism) like rocking and arm flapping. They may have an unusual crawling style, and are often more disruptive and anxious than their peers. They may also become shy, clingy and say nonsensical things.http://www.nmha.org/index.cfm?objectid=C7DF980C-1372-4D20-C8BA1DC89DBEAD32

Children with schizophrenia need a comprehensive treatment plan of medications, therapy, family therapy, and specialized programs. Medications must be carefully monitored.http://www.aacap.org/cs/root/facts_for_families/schizophrenia_in_children

One-half of children respond well to clozapine but may have to stop taking the medication because of the side effects. Newer antipsychotic drugs that are being developed may be more effective and safer. A child and adolescent psychiatrist should be used when treating children with schizophrenia.http://www.nmha.org/index.cfm?objectid=C7DF980C-1372-4D20-C8BA1DC89DBEAD32

Treatment of schizophrenia consists of medication and therapy. There is no exact cause known for schizophrenia. It is possible that the wiring in the brain is defective, there may be a chemical imbalance, and/or it tends to run in families.

Medications

Antipsychotic Drugs – Earlier antipsychotic drugs such as thorazine and clozapine were effective but caused side effects like tremors, rigidity, muscle spasms, and restlessness. Clozapine is still used for individuals who do not respond to other drugs but can cause a drop in white blood cells. Newer antipsychotic drugs like risperidone, olanzapine and quetiapine fumarate are much safer. They cause weight gain, but have less side effects. Once the correct drug is found for the individual, the difficulty comes with making sure they take their medications. Not taking them can cause a 70% risk of relapse. For those that take their mediation, the risk of relapse is only 20%. After many years a new drug may have to be chosen because the original drug may not work any longer. The newer drugs may cause side effects of blurred vision, rapid heartbeat, sun sensitivity, dizziness, rashes, and menstrual problems which disappear over time.

Therapy

Once an individual is stabilized on medication, therapy can begin. The purpose of therapy is to help the individual learn more about his/her illness, and how to cope with it so they can have a better life.

[Cognitive-behavioral therapy]] (CBT) – The main focus of CBT is to teach individuals with schizophrenia ignore the voices in their head. This therapy also helps the individual learn the warning signs of a relapse. Integrated treatment for substance abuse – Many individuals with schizophrenia take illegal drugs and alcohol to help them cope. This treatment is to help them avoid substance abuse.

Rehabilitation - Learning social and job skills help the individual become more independent.

Family education and support groups – These groups provide support for the individual which helps avoid relapses and assists them in coping with their disorder. It gives them an outlet for sharing experiences and realizing they are not alone.

New drugs are on the horizon that may have less side effects. One new drug activates the glutamate receptor in the brain which is different than any drug now available. Present medications mainly affect the dopamine and serotonin receptors.http://www.everydayhealth.com/emotional-health/schizophrenia/schizophrenia-treatment.aspx

Helping Adults with Schizophrenia

Coping with an illness as serious as schizophrenia can be challenging, both for the person with the condition and for friends and family. Here are some ways to cope with schizophrenia:

Education can help both the individual with the illness, and the family, understand schizophrenia and teach the family to be more compassionate to their loved one.

Support groups let the individual know that they are not alone and gives them an outlet to share their experiences. It is also helpful to family members in coping with their loved one.

Goals help motivate the individual to manage their illness. Family members can help to make sure their loved one stays focused on his or her goals.

Stress management and relaxation techniques are important for both the individual and family, like meditation, tai chi or yoga.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/schizophrenia/DS00196/DSECTION=coping-and-support

Helping Children with Schizophrenia

It is important to encourage the child to stay focused on the present and not to focus on them every time they have a hallucination. Respect their time to be alone. Sometimes they need this alone time to deal with their hallucinations and recover with dignity. If you are a teacher or caregiver, talk to the parents and discuss what coping skills are effective or learn new skills. Be sure the child knows that you consider them normal and they are safe.http://www.brighthub.com/education/special/articles/31265.aspx

Help for the Family of a Relative with Schizophrenia

1. Establish a daily routine for the patient to follow.
2. Help the patient stay on medication.
3. Keep the lines of communication open about problems or fears the patient may have.
4. Understand that caring for the patient can be emotionally and physically exhausting. Take time for yourself.
5. Keep your communications simple and brief when speaking with the patient.
6. Be patient and calm.
7. Ask for help if you need it; join a support

group.”http://psychcentral.com/disorders/sx31t.htm#family

The content on this page is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Speak with a qualified heath care professional to ensure that you have the most accurate information regarding any mental health diagnosis.