Schizophrenic? Of course, You Can Have a Functional Life

Finding out that you or someone you love has schizophrenia is heart-wrenching. However, despite what many believe, schizophrenia isn’t a life sentence of delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking. With the right treatment plan, you can live a full and functional life with schizophrenia. 

At Revîv Functional Psychiatry & TMS Wellness Center in Fullerton, California, our expert psychiatrist Dr. Hina Sidhu takes an integrative approach to schizophrenia, combining modern treatments and therapies with traditional approaches and philosophies to improve overall health and mental well-being. 

Here, we want to share our approach to schizophrenia and how it can help you get better and live a meaningful life.

About schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a chronic brain disorder that affects a person’s ability to distinguish between what’s real and what’s not. It causes:

• Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)
• Delusions (false beliefs)
• Disordered thinking (jumping from topic to topic)
• Abnormal movements (complete lack of movement or repetitive movements)
• Negative symptoms (showing no emotion or neglecting personal hygiene)

One of the more challenging symptoms of schizophrenia is anosognosia, which is the inability to recognize that you have a mental illness. Being in denial about your illness makes it more difficult to accept the idea that you need help and treatment. 

But symptoms of schizophrenia vary and may come and go. And, most people get better over time.

Getting better with treatment

Schizophrenia is a chronic condition, which means it’s with you for life. However, you can get better, especially when you have a proactive treatment plan.

Treatment for schizophrenia includes:

Medication

Antipsychotics are the main medication for people with schizophrenia. These medications help control hallucinations and delusions. Finding the right medication and dose, however, takes time.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy for schizophrenia focuses on improving thought patterns and recognizing warning signs of a relapse. 

Psychosocial support

Psychosocial support aims to find solutions to the challenges that come with schizophrenia, helping you go back to school, get a job, and form new relationships. Psychosocial support improves symptoms and compliance with treatment, reducing the risk of relapse.

Living a full life with schizophrenia

To live a full life with schizophrenia, you need to remain proactive. Having a positive attitude is the first step toward your goals. We recommend sticking to your treatment plan, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in regular exercise.

Stress is a trigger for schizophrenia symptoms. Know your limits and find healthy ways to reduce stress, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, to keep your symptoms under control.

It’s essential to connect with others who understand what you’re going through. We recommend joining a peer support group so you can share your experiences and learn from others.

Schizophrenia is a significant and life-long condition that requires ongoing medical care. But, you’re still in control and can have a functional life. 

We can help you regain control over your life. Call our office or book an appointment online today.