Caring for someone with schizophrenia can be demanding but it is an important role.26
Those that care for people with negative symptoms of schizophrenia can experience a high level of burden.13 “People with negative symptoms need help with everyday tasks. This may make them seem lazy or unwilling to help themselves, but the problems are symptoms caused by the schizophrenia.”7
As a person who cares for someone with schizophrenia, you may find the following helpful:
- Learn as much as you can about it so that you can help the friend or family member you are caring for. For example, you can learn how to help the person with schizophrenia:
- manage a psychotic episode
- get back to normal life
- avoid a relapse
- Learn too how to make informed decisions about their treatment
- Join a local support group, share your experiences and learn from others
- Reduce stress for the person by creating a structured and supportive environment
- Encourage them to be as independent as possible, while all the time being supportive
- Find out about support services (such as a local day center or work projects, supported accommodation, training courses)
- Find out if family therapy is available
- Use your knowledge and experience to help reduce the stigma associated with schizophrenia by educating others
- Take time out to look after yourself and try to ensure that you get regular breaks from caregiving
