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Managing your Schizophrenia

It’s important to know that schizophrenia is a long-term mental health condition that can’t be cured, but it can be managed in different ways to improve well-being and daily life. 

The effectiveness of these management strategies, however, depends on the individual’s specific symptoms, the severity of these symptoms, as well as their specific circumstances.  

Take Your Medication and Follow Your Treatment Plan: 

  • Medications help control symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions. It’s important to take your prescribed medication regularly as directed by your doctor. If you have concerns or experience side effects, talk openly with your healthcare provider. Counselling sessions with a psychologist or occupational therapist, depending on your needs, should also be part of your treatment plan. 

Learn about schizophrenia –  

  • Educate yourself and your loved ones about schizophrenia to understand it accurately and reduce stigma. This knowledge helps you recognize symptoms, anticipate challenges, make informed decisions about treatment, and increase empathy. It also improves communication about your experiences and needs. 
     

Build a support network 

  • Having a support network, including mental health professionals, family, friends, and support groups, is crucial for managing schizophrenia. The level of support varies depending on your symptoms. Joining a support group provides a safe space to share experiences, receive emotional support, and get practical advice from others who understand what you’re going through. 
     

Develop coping strategies

Identify and practice coping techniques that work for you, such as 

  • Manage your stress – stress can make symptoms of schizophrenia worse. Manage stress with exercises like deep breathing, mindfulness, or yoga. 
  • Set realistic goals – Break tasks into smaller steps and set achievable goals to boost confidence. 
  • Maintain a routine – Stick to a daily routine for stability, including meals, meds, exercise, relaxation, and sleep. 

 

Monitor and maintain your mental & physical health –  

  • Pay attention to changes in your symptoms or mood and track them in a journal. Communicate openly with your treatment team about any concerns or changes. Your physical health impacts your mental well-being, so eat balanced meals, exercise regularly (even light activities like walking), get enough sleep, and avoid substances like alcohol and drugs that can worsen symptoms or interact with medications. 
     

While these coping tips can help many people with schizophrenia, managing the disorder should be customised and flexible. It’s important for people with schizophrenia to collaborate closely with their healthcare providers to create a comprehensive treatment plan that meets their specific circumstances, needs, challenges, and goals.