One in every 100 South Africans is impacted by schizophrenia. Treating this disorder remains a challenge due to the complexities of schizophrenia symptoms. Depending on the symptoms, and the severity of the person's diagnosis, healthcare professionals may recommend daily, oral medication or long-term injectables.
Symptoms of schizophrenia affect the day-to-day lives of people living with the disorder and treatment is an ongoing requirement, especially where a person shows severe symptoms that may include positive and negative symptoms.
Called positive symptoms as they are highly exaggerated ideas and perceptions experienced by a person diagnosed with schizophrenia and include,
Called negative symptoms because the person diagnosed lacks normal, mental functions such as,
The symptoms of schizophrenia vary from person to person, which is why it’s so important to seek help from a healthcare professional. Some treatment options recommended by healthcare professionals may include,
1. Daily medication
Depending on the severity of symptoms, a healthcare professional will recommend daily, oral medication, which will be an effective symptom management solution. The disadvantages include,
2. Monthly injectables
Monthly injectables are administered by a healthcare professional and are effective in managing symptoms of schizophrenia for longer periods. The advantages of injectables include,
3. Talk therapy
Therapy session work hand-in-hand with medication, and gives the psychologist an opportunity to accurately assess symptoms. Should the symptoms become more aggressive, the supporting psychiatrist may recommend a higher dosage of medication. Other benefits include,4
Schizophrenia treatment options have come a long way thanks to research and development from pharmaceutical companies. Each treatment option works differently, for different people, which is why a support system and complementary therapy is necessary. To truly help someone living with schizophrenia, caregivers should have a good understanding of the disorder and how to better impact positive change in the lives of their loved ones living with schizophrenia.5 To learn more about schizophrenia and how you can help someone that may be living with schizophrenia, join Our Mental Health group on Facebook for advice, tips and how best to help someone living with schizophrenia.
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