There is no cure for schizophrenia. That means that for the foreseeable future the debilitating ailment will continue to strike, causing drastic and serious symptoms and issues for those with schizophrenia. While there is no cure, there are a variety of treatments to help deal with the various symptoms of the ailment. Here is a brief overview of the treatment options available for those with schizophrenia.
Antipsychotics to Treat Schizophrenia
In order to control the harsh symptoms of schizophrenia, medication is absolutely necessary, specifically antipsychotics. Antipsychotics attempt to control the symptoms of schizophrenia by controlling the dopamine levels in the brain. When it comes to antipsychotics, the goal is to try to control the damaging effects of the symptoms at the smallest dose possible. Doctors will try a variety of different antipsychotics, experimenting with different dosages and combinations in order to find the most effective treatment.
It can take several months for symptoms to show improvement from medication. Many with schizophrenia may be reluctant to try antipsychotics because of the potential for serious side effects, including neurological damage.
Therapy to Treat Schizophrenia
Once the medications are used to tame some of the more dramatic symptoms, psychological and social interventions and therapy is strongly suggested. The therapy will work to help return the individual to a normal thought pattern, while simultaneously learning to cope with the stress that comes with schizophrenia. Therapy will also work to improve communication and social skills, allowing them to complete everyday activities.
Families will also need some therapy sessions to help them understand the best way to deal with someone with schizophrenia. By learning the best methods of helping a schizophrenic, the family can work to help them improve over time.
Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia
Hospitalization For Severe Symptoms of Schizophrenia
Hospitalization may be needed for extreme cases when the symptoms of schizophrenia are severe and dangerous to the person afflicted and possibly those around them. Hospitalization puts the individual with schizophrenia in a controlled environment, with a dedicated staff who can make sure they are safe, eating, sleeping and performing basic hygiene tasks.
Synergy Research Centers are Running Schizophrenia Treatment Studies
Synergy Research Centers in San Diego is actively seeking individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia to participate in a treatment research study. This study is working to find a more effective treatment for schizophrenia, and by participating they will get access to new and advanced pharmaceuticals that are being used to fight the symptoms of schizophrenia. If you or someone you love has schizophrenia, contact Synergy Research Centers to sign up for a research study. Give us a call at 888-539-0282.