Help a person with a paranoid Schizophrenic illness.
Schizophrenia includes various symptoms, while paranoid schizophrenia is characterized by delusions.There are things that don't really exist that hallucinate.Many people are familiar with audio and visual hallucinations, hearing or seeing things that aren't really present, but they can affect other senses as well.The person can smell or feel things that are not present.There are false beliefs and they are held very strongly.They're likely to include persecution or a conspiracy.Pious schizophrenia is the most common of the sub-types.
Step 1: Stay in contact.
Schizophrenia is stigmatized because it is a mental illness.This leads to decreased social activity and feelings of loneliness.The isolating effects of social stigma can be reduced by maintaining regular contact with the person.Set a weekly date to spend time with the person.Designating a day each week to share a meal or engage in activity will ensure regular social contact.
Step 2: Don't deny distressing experiences.
The fear and loneliness that the person experiences are very real.The validity of the person's story should not be the focus.When responding to a traumatic account, ask if he is ok now and how you can make him feel better.
Step 3: Join a group.
Gaining insight and establishing supportive relationships can be achieved through support groups.You can join a support group to show your desire to be better informed.There is a support group for family members of people with schizophrenia.It is helpful to meet and talk with others who have similar experiences.There are support groups in your area.
Step 4: Don't try to challenge delusions directly.
Declaring a person's belief to be false is not likely to change the belief and may cause the person to become more defensive.This will make the person suspicious of your motives and intent.Some beliefs seem strange to you.Making comments like "That's crazy!"They should be avoided.
Step 5: Encourage consideration of different explanations.
alternate explanations of circumstances the individual identifies as suspicious or concerningIf he believes someone is following him, suggest the possibility that the stalker lives or works nearby.If the person becomes agitated when offered alternative explanations, abandon this strategy and instead note the current absence of the stalker to help him feel safe at the moment.
Step 6: Make it a distraction.
Asking the person to assist you with an activity or accompany you on an errand will distract you from delusions and hallucinations.Before changing the subject, be sure to acknowledge the person's emotional experience.Say, "That's really scary, but you're safe here," before introducing the distraction.
Step 7: Rather than changing beliefs, focus on treatment as a way to cope with the frustration and anxiety that come from beliefs.
Many people with mental illness don't know that their thoughts or behavior are not normal.They may not seek treatment because they think they are fine.It is possible to decrease resistance to seeking help by focusing on the discomfort symptoms.Maybe we should find someone to talk to about this, because it has to be really stressed out for you.
Step 8: Offer to see the doctor and counseling the person.
You can show your support by accompanying her.It may be embarrassing or frightening to seek help, but your presence may help.The person might not want you in the exam room.To show support, offer to wait in the waiting room.
Step 9: Make lifestyle changes.
Maintaining a regular schedule of activities is required for treatment to be successful.Diet changes may be required for some medications.Changing your daily routine will accommodate the person's treatment recommendations.He should be aware of his schedule and avoid activities that may affect treatment compliance.Reminders on your cell phone are a good idea if you spend a lot of time with the person.He will be able to remember to take his medication regularly and be less embarrassed about taking it.
Step 10: There are signs of a relapse.
Before you witness a psychotic episode, there may be some signs.Social withdraw and isolation, poor personal hygiene, sleep disturbances, and increasing paranoia may signal noncompliance with treatment or a need for a change of treatment.If you notice a change in behavior, it's a good idea to find out if the person is taking their medication as directed.Suggest that she talk to her doctor about changing her treatment if it no longer works.
Step 11: A list of important contacts is important to you.
If you are spending time with the person, you should know who to call in the event of a psychotic episode.Take the number of the person's close relatives who will help him.Immediate contact should be made with the person's physician and/or psychiatrist.Tell the person where you are and describe their behavior.These people may be able to show you how to help.Emergency services should be called if you believe the person may harm himself or others.You should call the people on the list to find out where the person is being taken.
Step 12: You and the person you are with should plan to act in ways that will calm them down.
It is possible for people with well-controlled symptoms to have a relapse.In the event of a relapse, listen to what you should do.It will only make the problem worse.Deep breathing can help calm you and others.Discuss your crisis plan with the person.Remaining calm and calling appropriate contacts should be included.You can find a place for both of you to sit.This could help reduce the amount of agitated people.Speak with soft tones.Shouting will cause more stress for everyone.