A parent shared their initial distress when finding out their daughter had schizophrenia. They stated on the main website for Centre for Addiction and Mental Health,
“I couldn’t believe our sensible, studious daughter. She had changed into a person I hardly recognized. She refused to change her clothes and said she heard voices telling her she was evil and deserved to die.”
Paranoid schizophrenia is considered the most common subtype of schizophrenia; delusions associated with this disorder cause a person to become very suspicious of others. These suspicions could be centered around a coworker, friend, or someone else trying to hurt or poison themfe?, a spouse is cheating on them, the government is spying on them, individuals around them are plotting against them, and more. These suspicions can certainly cause distress in many areas of a person’s life, making it difficult for some with paranoid schizophrenia to maintain close friendships and romantic relationships. Not only does the disorder affect the person who has it, but it affects their loved ones, too.
Many people with paranoid schizophrenia are not dangerous, but they may easily feel threatened if they believe someone close to them is trying to hurt them in some way. Hallucinations (seeing things that aren’t there) and delusions (hearing voices) are common for people with paranoid schizophrenia, and this can make it very challenging for family members who are unsure of how to handle the situation.
Some family members help support a loved one for much of their life, while others can have more independence. Treatment typically includes medication and therapy, both of which can greatly help a person with schizophrenia manage their symptoms. Prior to treatment, hospitalization may be an occurrence that requires the help of family members if their loved one’s symptoms have gotten severe.
If you are the family member of a loved one with schizophrenia, it’s best for your family to seek therapy, too. There are many support groups to help you and others learn effective coping tools to better help your loved one if they are in need. While the journey may seem unpredictable at times, symptoms of this disorder are manageable if treated properly.
Therapy is a primary component of treatment for rehabilitation from a substance use disorder and/or mental health disorder. Attending treatment with certified clinicians and counselors is critical for a full recovery. At one of New Vista Behavioral Health’s treatment providers, you are receiving exceptional care, held to a higher standard. Our programs result in better outcomes, ensuring a better recovery. For information call us today: 888-316-3665.
