Things You Must Know While Caring Or A Loved One With Schizophrenia

By Author: Maria
Total Articles: 8
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Although schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder that has affected more than 20 million people across the world, there is little awareness of the symptoms and its treatment. While some people can manage their symptoms, some may need help from their family members or loved ones to survive with the disease. Are you a caregiver of a loved one who is battling with this severe mental illness? If yes, there are some essential things that you must know as a caregiver to take care of your loved one in a better way.
So, let’s have a look at these things.

Know the side effects of medications

Sometimes, many medications of schizophrenia that are required to keep a check on blood sugar levels or cholesterol can have side effects. So, talk with the physician of your loved one to enquire whether there are any side effects and what should be done to minimize those effects so that the condition does not become critical. Also, refrain from using any over-the-counter medications.

Have an emergency plan

When your loved one is stable, ask him or her about the people who should be contacted in case of an emergency. If your loved one wants to contact the psychiatrist immediately, make sure that you have everything in place to provide him all the required medical information in the shortest possible time. Also, you must have a contact list of people from whom you can seek a helping hand if the condition of your loved one gets worse due to the mental disorder.

Encourage to socialize

Since people with schizophrenia find it challenging to deal with people because the mental disorder affects their thinking and memory skills, encourage all the more to socialize with people they know. Even, encouraging them to participate in tasks in which they need to frequently interact with others can boost their self-esteem.

Don’t ignore self-care

Working as a caregiver is a tough job when you have to take care of a schizophrenia patient. You have to not only monitor your loved one but also to take care of his or her medications and diet. You may soon feel exhausted and have little time to prioritize your own needs which can lead to burnout. So, don’t ignore to indulge in self-care whenever you get an opportunity. Even a cup of coffee with a friend or a trip to the gym can make you feel refreshed!

Lastly, it is vital to remember that your loved one is not suffering from a split personality as many would suggest with their half-baked knowledge about schizophrenia. Yes, there is at present no cure for the mental disorder. However, if you have a strong support system and the right treatment, you can ensure a better life for your loved one. You can eventually help your care recipient to live a productive life. Meanwhile, you will also have to make sure that you remain in sound health throughout your caregiving journey. So, whenever you feel that your journey is becoming tough, do not hesitate to seek caregiving tips or resources from experienced caregivers.

Maria is an experienced caregiver who had taken care of her bed-ridden mother for more than a decade. She has a profound interest in writing informative blogs and articles that can prove helpful for other caregivers.