Symptoms of schizophrenia can be very difficult to deal with. Everyone does not experience symptoms at the same level and symptoms will range for each individual. Below are a couple of suggestions that might help you or a loved one deal with the basic symptoms of schizophrenia. Professional help should be sought for more severe symptoms.
Hallucinations
Hallucinations involve hearing, seeing, smelling, tasting, or feeling things that are not there.
According to most experts, one of the most common hallucinations involved with schizophrenia are auditory hallucinations (sounds and voices). Voices can either speak to the schizophrenia sufferer (second-person, "you" voices) or about him (third-person, "he" voices).
How to handle
- Remain calm
- Talk to the person ask if you can help
- Try to distract the person with music, games, etc…
- Give them space. Do NOT make them feel trapped
- Do NOT blame or judge
Delusions
Delusions are extremely common in schizophrenia. A simple definition of delusions are: “strongly held beliefs that are not amenable to logic or persuasion.” Although delusions need not necessarily be false, the process by which they are arrived at is usually bizarre and illogical, for instance, “Martians are out to get me.”
How to handle
- Establish a trusting relationship. Do NOT argue (Do not be combative)
- Ask the person why they believe the way they do? Just listen
- Avoid getting frustrated with the person
- Show compassion for their belief.
- Try to calm the situation.
Summary
These are just a couple of suggestions that may help. We realize that some people may already know these things and we realize these recommendations are easier said than done when you are in the situation. However, some people will benefit from this information. Also, please comment below (register then sign-in to comment). You never know who you will help.
