Loving someone with schizophrenia means navigating difficult experiences like hallucinations (sensations that don’t exist, such as hearing voices) and delusions (beliefs that can’t be true, such as thinking they are being followed by a spy). Empathy and understanding will help you build trust in your relationship.
It can also be helpful to build a network of supportive friends and family you can turn to for help when needed.
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Schizophrenia can have a significant impact on the ability to maintain meaningful relationships, especially romantic ones. However, with advances in medical treatment, and open communication, people with schizophrenia are able to have rewarding, healthy relationships.
One way to support your partner is to be patient with them and listen carefully when they talk about their experiences with schizophrenia. You can also help them feel supported by taking them to their doctor appointments and therapy sessions so they can learn about the symptoms of schizophrenia from a professional, as well as how to best respond if an episode occurs.
You should also make sure your partner knows they can always call you if they are having a crisis or feeling suicidal, and that you will take them to the emergency room for psychiatric care. In addition, you can ask your partner if they have any plans in place for what to do if they experience a psychotic episode. These plans, known as advanced directives or Ulysses agreements, can help them manage their symptoms and get the help they need when needed.
Be patient.
Schizophrenia can cause mood swings and unpredictable behavior, so it’s important to be patient with your partner. Especially in the beginning of your relationship, when your loved one is in treatment and may experience symptoms, it’s best to avoid accusing them or taking their actions personally. This will help improve trust and communication in your relationship.
You can also be patient by encouraging your loved one to stick with their medication regimen and attend therapy appointments. If you’re worried they’ll skip an appointment, ask them to give you a call or text before they go. And if they’re feeling unwell, encourage them to see their doctor or mental health team immediately instead of waiting until things get worse.
Any kind of mental illness complicates a relationship, but schizophrenia can make it even more challenging. Developing a healthy, long-term relationship with someone who has schizophrenia can be possible with proper treatment and support. And although it may take time to build a strong foundation for your relationship, it’s worth the effort! By following these tips, you can help your loved one find the happiness they deserve.
Don’t judge or argue.
Schizophrenia can cause a person to lose touch with reality and experience irrational beliefs. It doesn’t help to argue with someone about their hallucinations and delusions. They’re not thoughts that you can “talk them out of.”
People with schizophrenia often appear emotionally flat and lack motivation to accomplish things. They may also have slowed movements and speak in a monotone. Medications used to treat schizophrenia can reduce pleasure in sex and affect libido.
A loving relationship with a partner who has schizophrenia is possible, but it’s important to take care of yourself as well. Getting regular exercise, practicing relaxation techniques, and having a support network can help you stay strong for your loved one. If your partner is having a severe episode or is exhibiting threatening behavior, call local crisis lines or 911. A mental health professional can help your partner understand what’s happening and offer guidance. They can also refer you to a psychiatrist for further assessment and treatment. It’s also a good idea to have your partner’s doctor’s phone number in case you need to contact them urgently.
Ask how you can help.
If you have concerns about a loved one’s behavior, ask their medical team for advice. They may be able to recommend specific strategies that could help, such as relaxation techniques or stress-management practices. They can also help you understand more about schizophrenia and relapse warning signs. It can take time to find a medication that works well for someone with schizophrenia. Ask if there are any early warning signs you can look out for that might indicate that their medication isn’t working.
Encourage your loved one to make healthy lifestyle choices like getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly. This will help them feel more in control of their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Remember that you can only be a good supporter if you’re taking care of yourself, too. So, carve out some time for yourself every day and try to have fun, whether you’re exercising, playing a game or reading a book. Also, don’t hesitate to seek out help if you are feeling overwhelmed or burnt out.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Schizophrenia can interfere with relationships and cause a variety of symptoms that may be uncomfortable for you or your loved one. It is possible for people who have well-managed schizophrenia to have a healthy relationship, including intimate and sexual relationships, but it will take commitment and patience.
For example, some antipsychotic medications can have side effects such as sexual dysfunction or drowsiness that might make dating difficult. It’s important to talk openly about your feelings and needs in your relationship. You might want to consider couples therapy, as it can help you learn to communicate more effectively and support each other.
A stigma still exists around mental health conditions, especially severe ones like schizophrenia. It’s important to recognize and acknowledge this with your partner so that they feel understood and supported in staying committed to their treatment plan. It can also help if they see you go to therapy with them, as it will show that you’re both invested in the health of your relationship. Then, you can be more confident that they will continue to work on their recovery.
