What do you do if you have schizophrenia?

If you have reason to believe that you - or a loved one - has schizophrenia, the first thing you need to do is get to a professional (either a psychiatrist or licensed psychotherapist) for an evaluation.

They will ask you some questions just to determine basics, then more questions to evaluate exactly what mental health diagnosis, if any, you have. There are different types of schizophrenia, and there are other diagnoses that have similar symptoms but are not schizophrenia. A psychiatrist might also send you for a blood test. This will rule out any biological problems, and possibly rule-in some imbalances that will help with the final diagnosis.

Prescribed medications taken as you're told to can help tremendously with schizophrenia (and many other mental health problems). Most schizophrenics continue to participate well in their daily lives. Psychotherapy sessions also help you adjust to the additional needs of the condition, and to work through any emotional factors that are contributing to or resulting from your mental health illness.

Again, if you are afraid you or someone you know has schizophrenia, do yourself (and them) the favor of seeing a professional as soon as possible.

--BatyaD (LCSW)