Schizophrenia – Management
- Medication Management
- Antipsychotics: Primary treatment to reduce symptoms like delusions and hallucinations (e.g., risperidone, olanzapine, aripiprazole).
- Long-acting Injectables: Helpful for patients with poor medication adherence.
- Manage Side Effects: Monitor and treat medication side effects (e.g., weight gain, tremors, sedation).
- Psychosocial Interventions
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps manage symptoms and improve coping skills.
- Psychoeducation: Educates patients and families about the illness and its management.
- Social Skills Training: Enhances interpersonal communication and daily functioning.
- Supported Employment/Education: Encourages reintegration into work or school environments.
- Family and Community Support
- Family Therapy: Reduces stress within the family and improves support systems.
- Community Programs: Provide rehabilitation, housing, and peer support services.
- Case Management: Coordinates care and supports daily living needs.
- Lifestyle and Self-Care
- Healthy Routine: Encourage regular sleep, balanced diet, and physical activity.
- Avoid Substance Use: Discourage use of alcohol and drugs, which can worsen symptoms.
- Regular Follow-ups: Ensure continuous monitoring and early detection of relapses.
- Crisis and Emergency Care
- Hospitalization: May be required during acute psychotic episodes for stabilization.
- Suicide Prevention: Monitor for suicidal thoughts or behaviors and ensure safety.
Comprehensive and ongoing management improves quality of life and long-term outcomes in schizophrenia.