Schizophrenia is a mental illness that is listed in the Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
It is a chronic condition that is characterized by episodes in which the individual is unable to distinguish between real and unreal experiences. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIH) explains that schizophrenia is “a serious mental illness that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves.” The distorted thinking patterns that present with schizophrenia can lead to disabling symptoms, as they can interfere with an individual’s ability to function in his or her daily life. The signs and symptoms of schizophrenia vary from person to person, but most commonly involve disorganized speech, visual and/ or auditory hallucinations, delusions, certain antisocial behavior patterns (e.g., involuntary movements, poor hygiene practices, catatonia, etc.), and an impaired ability to function appropriately. Schizophrenia is said to affect less than one percent of the American population. Although schizophrenia is a life-long condition, with proper treatment, an individual can learn to effectively manage and prevent the worsening of his or her symptoms.
Family Therapy
When one member of a family suffers, it affects the entire system. An illness like schizophrenia can corrode the dynamics of a healthy family unit. Family therapy can be equally beneficial for the identified patient and the other participating family members. It helps family members achieve a balance between caring for the individual and maintaining their own lives. Experts explain “a high functioning family helps in maintaining the dimensions of communication, emotional and behavior control, and helps in problem-solving and coping behaviors of its members.” Family therapy for schizophrenia typically includes education about the mental illness and skills training (e.g., stress reduction, emotional processing and regulating, structured problem solving, etc.). Through family therapy, members will work together to improve their knowledge of the illness and its management. This can help promote empathy and affective support, while also correcting any dysfunctional communication patterns that exist.
Further Information and Support
Navigating the challenges that arise from living with mental illness, struggling with substance abuse, and/ or addiction can not only be all-consuming but are often impossible to effectively handle without proper support. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. Bear in mind that you do not have to be on this journey alone. At {Upwell Advisors}, we offer unique, customized concierge therapeutic services to provide our clients with unparalleled support throughout every step of the recovery process.
Feel free to reach to contact us anytime via email at [email protected] We look forward to supporting you on your journey.
