relapse of schizophrenia

overview

preventing a relapse

when you have schizophrenia, your symptoms can sometimes come back. this is called a relapse. there are things you can do to help prevent a relapse.

• be active in your own recovery.

  work with your doctor and take care of yourself.

• take your medicine, even if you're feeling better.

  not taking medicine is the main cause of relapse.

• talk to your doctor about your medicines.

  if side effects are making your life hard, talk with your doctor to see whether you can try a different medicine. your doctor may be able to change the medicine or how much you take.

• stay in counselling or therapy.

  go to your sessions, and continue with your recovery plan.

• get support from family.

  if your doctor recommends family therapy, be sure to have all family members attend each session.

• join a self-help or support group.

  self-help and support groups are usually run by the members of the group, not health professionals.

• find ways to reduce stress in your life.
• avoid drinking alcohol or using recreational drugs.
• learn how to recognize the first signs of relapse.

  have a plan for what you'll do when you notice signs, and get help right away. common signs of relapse include:

  • staying away from or not being interested in other people.
  • forgetting things.
  • having problems concentrating.
  • daydreaming.
  • not paying attention to what is going on.

relapse action plan

an action plan says in writing what you can do to help prevent a relapse of schizophrenia and what you need to do if you have signs of a relapse. you will need the help of others to get through a relapse.

an action plan also lists the general signs of a relapse and those that may be special to you.

• write down the common signs of a relapse. they include:
  • staying away from or not being interested in other people.
  • forgetting things.
  • having problems concentrating.
  • daydreaming.
  • not paying attention to what is going on.
• work with your doctor to find out if you have any special relapse signs.

an action plan lists things that need to be taken care of during a relapse. think about:

• who will take care of your children if you have any.
• who will manage your money and finances.
• which hospital or other facility you'd like to go to.
• who to tell if you have a relapse.

action plans also can include legal documents. write these when you have few or no symptoms, and ask your doctor and lawyer to help you.

• an advance care plan tells your wishes for treatment during a relapse. it can be very useful if you have severe symptoms of fear or suspicion of others during a relapse.
• a proxy directive says who will be in charge of making decisions when you can't decide things yourself. this document is very helpful if you refuse treatment during a relapse when you would otherwise accept it.
• a power of attorney lets you choose someone to help you deal with money during a relapse. find someone you trust to co-sign financial documents, such as credit card applications or mortgages, to protect yourself financially while you are having a relapse.