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Supporting someone who lives with schizophrenia can be challenging at times, especially if that person is very close to you, such as a family member or dear friend. There are specific steps you can take, however, to ensure both your mental health and theirs are maintained and nurtured throughout your journey together. Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your loved one.
Make sure you’re both managing your stress levels.
Stress is the number one antagonist to someone living with schizophrenia and the person caring for them. If you suspect someone you love has schizophrenia, visit Mind Diagnostics for more information on this mental illness. Both of you need to find productive ways to ease the stress load, whether through exercise, meditation, mindfulness, yoga, or simple physical activity such as walking. Stress relief can come in other forms, too, such as through the practice of a hobby, creating art of any kind, or creative writing, to name a few. The activity does not matter as long as it is a healthy way to relieve stress.
Stick to the goals.
Your loved one with schizophrenia is most likely seeing a primary care physician or psychiatrist who has prescribed an extensive treatment plan that includes long-term and short-term goals. Ensure you know what those goals are and use positive language to help your loved one get back on track or stay mindful of those goals. The more you focus on goals, the more likely your loved one with schizophrenia will be more mindful of them as well.
Educate yourself about Schizophrenia.
You’re only as effective as your knowledge base. Suppose you go into the situation only understanding Schizophrenia in terms of the behaviors your loved one has displayed. In that case, you’re going into the situation under-educated and, thus, less effective at giving your loved one the support they need.
Educate yourself as much as you can through reading, talking to others, or attending support groups or conferences on this mental illness. By doing this, you’ll be better prepared to support your loved one if new, unexpected circumstances arise.
Get Support
Yes, your loved one should be participating in regular support group meetings, but so should you. You may attend their appointments, or you may seek a support group of your own. If you desire your own support, you can speak more freely about the stress you experience while caring for someone with schizophrenia. It’s essential to put yourself in an environment where you can lean on others for support from time to time instead of you being the shoulder to lean on all the time.
Respond appropriately.
If your loved one experiences a crisis, staying calm is critical. You may need to practice calming techniques for yourself, so you know how to respond appropriately. Your loved one may be experiencing a hallucination where what they see or hear is real to them. Or they may be experiencing delusions, where what they believe is true to them. Don’t argue with them or refute their beliefs.
Make sure you treat your loved one with respect, kindness, and patience. Remember that they may be scared or angry during this crisis, and they’ll need calm guiding support to help them through this period. If you need assistance during an emergency, don’t hesitate to call 911.
Keep organized records.
The key to staying up on all the information relative to your loved one with schizophrenia is by keeping detailed written notes. Write everything down during all doctor’s visits, and be sure to ask all of the questions you need to educate yourself. Help your loved one keep a record of how they’re feeling day to day, making sure to log new symptoms or upticks in stress.
