Living with Schizophrenia

The UCLA Newsroom recently reported on a study conducted at the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California in Los Angeles. Researchers involved in the study unveiled some of the ingenious coping mechanisms and strategies that people with schizophrenia use to function normally. According to the study, published in Psychiatric Services, these individuals often manage to stay productive in their careers, despite their diagnosis.

Breaking New Ground

Amy Cohen, an associate research psychologist, works at the David Geffen School of Medicine and is the first listed author for the study. She claims that, “to the best of our knowledge, no previous studies have addressed how individuals with schizophrenia who also met some definition of recovery manage the symptoms of their disease.” Her research and that of her colleagues broke new ground and opened a window into the lives of many schizophrenics.

Steering Clear of Addictive Substances

One way that schizophrenic individuals cope and retain control over their mental health is by staying away from risk factors. Drugs or alcohol can further interfere with their ability to make rational decisions and discern reality, so responsible people with schizophrenia take measures to avoid those elements or other addictive substances.

Taking Medication

To be able to function productively and normally in a career setting, people with schizophrenia must take their prescribed medication daily, or as recommended by their doctor. Without the medication, a schizophrenic’s mental health situation could quickly spiral out of control, with devastating results to his or her career and personal life.

Skipping Stress and Choosing Supportive Friends

Another way that schizophrenic patients cope with their illness is by avoiding situations of extreme stress. If a particular event is going to put extra strain on the patient, he or she simply avoids it. Those who participated in the study also spoke of avoiding certain people. They choose friends and associates who are understanding, non-judgemental, and supportive.

According to the study, many people with schizophrenia are constantly on alert for ways to prove to themselves what is or isn’t reality. Some use specific cognitive patterns and reasoning strategies to identify what is real and to determine whether or not their thoughts and conclusions are reality-based.

Discovering Diet and Exercise, Nature and Faith

For some people, exercise and a clean, healthy diet make a difference, enabling greater normalcy. For others, spiritual faith and religion help them cope with their mental health struggles and sustain a clearer view of reality. Others seek out places of calm and quietness, like a peaceful lake, a park, a garden, or a private room.

Achieving Goals in Spite of Schizophrenia

Does someone in your family have schizophrenia? Fortunately, this particular mental health issue can be medicated and controlled to some extent, allowing the person to live a full, productive life. Encourage your loved one to visit a psychiatrist in Singapore, specifically one of the highly-trained staff at Adelphi Psych Medicine Clinic. With regular care, therapy, and treatment, a schizophrenic can improve and learn strategies to overcome symptoms. Those with schizophrenia may have to work a bit harder, but they can achieve their goals and have successful careers.