Schizophrenia can affect an individual to an extent that they turn incapable to taking care of themselves. At this time, the role of a caregiver, family or friend, becomes important. Taking care of an individual who is schizophrenic can be very difficult as they can get aggressive or rigid suddenly due to the symptoms of schizophrenia.
Care giving Tips for paranoid schizophrenia
Medications and therapies do help but support and involvement from caregiver is essential. Here are a few suggestions to guide a caregiver:
- Plan their day: Plan their day ahead, make sure the activities are predictable. For doing a task, break them into small and easy steps. If changes are made, ensure they are gradual and not sudden. Changes are important to avoid boredom. In planning some activities, let them make the decision but make sure the matter is not complex for them to decide.
- Provide stimulation: Make sure you introduce something new in their routine now and then. Also ensure the new activity is something they like. The activity has to be simple and easy, if necessary, involving familiar people. Let them perform in this activity; do not expect them to excel at the first go. Remember to praise and appreciate them for their effort and achievement.
- Encourage them to socialize: Encourage them to talk to other family members and old friends. Even it is superficial, encourage them. Take them out for walks and gathering, if possible, and encourage them to talk to other people.
- Get others involved: Talk to other family members and friends and ask them to get involved and interact and support with individual. Educate them about the disorder, its symptoms and effects. Social support can play an important role in helping the individual function better.
- Under difficult situations: These are the times when they can become aggressive and difficult to handle due to their symptoms. At these times, do not confront them, stay in control and stay calm. Let them do what they want but also keep an eye on them so that they don’t harm themselves and others. Try to communicate with understanding but be assertive also.
- Medications and therapies: Ensure they take their medications on time and attend their therapy sessions. Following therapies can be difficult for them, they even want to stop. But encourage them by being understanding, and showing that you are concerned.
Schizophrenia rehabilitation centers
Taking care of an individual with schizophrenia can be overwhelming and you might feel exhausted. It is important that the caregivers first take care of themselves and monitor their physical and mental wellbeing as they take care of the patient.
For professional help for your loved one, call us now on +919611194949. Visit Cadabam’s- the best Schizophrenia rehabilitation centers for more details.