Like other long-term conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, schizophrenia needs on-going management. The aims of treatment are to:
- Relieve symptoms26
- Prevent relapse26
- Provide coping strategies26
- Support a return to independent living26
Treatment for schizophrenia may involve a combination of anti-psychotic medications and psychological (talking) therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family therapy, art therapy, counseling and psychotherapy.28
The negative symptoms of schizophrenia may seem like depression,2 but they are different conditions.3435 Differentiating between them is an important part of treatment.3445
Treating negative symptoms is a challenge.19 Relatives may find it harder to cope with the negative symptoms than with positive symptoms (hallucinations and delusions).13
Medication
Drugs that treat the delusional symptoms have been around for decades, and have helped many sufferers enormously.46 Available since the 1950s,7 anti-psychotic drugs help to control positive symptoms and have transformed the treatment of psychosis.10 Anti-psychotics fall into two types: the older, typical ones and the newer, atypical ones which have different side-effects.626
It is estimated that anti-psychotics help around four out of five people with schizophrenia to control their positive symptoms.126 These drugs can also reduce symptoms such as agitation, impulsiveness and aggressiveness.26
Anti-psychotics don’t work perfectly for everyone. This can be called a sub-optimal response, meaning: not well-controlled. In fact, around one-third of people with schizophrenia continue to show positive symptoms.47
No effective treatment exists for negative symptoms.19
Psychological treatments
Psychological treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you to develop strategies for coping with schizophrenia.728 Art therapy may also help you to cope with the negative symptoms of schizophrenia.28
Rehabilitation aims to help you re-integrate into society through activities that encourage independent living.726
