The Effects of Hospitalization for Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a mental illness that inhibits a person's ability to separate fantasy from reality. In some cases, schizophrenic episodes may be treated with short- or long-term hospitalization. The effects of hospitalization include patient observation, stabilization and safety. Hospitalization can also regulate the patient's medication and therapy treatment. Hospitalization periods are generally short, and patients can be released after they are stabilized.

Observation

• By hospitalizing a schizophrenic, the patient's doctors and psychiatrists can observe his symptoms firsthand. This may give the physicians insight to tailor future treatment regimens for the patient.

Stabilization

• Hospitalization can stabilize a schizophrenic by giving the patient a safe environment during a severe schizophrenic episode. Hospitalization can also help the patient regain a grasp on reality.

Protection

• Schizophrenic outbursts can be violent psychotic episodes that have the potential for self-harm or harm unto others. Hospitalization can prevent the patient from hurting loved ones, harming himself or committing suicide.

Medication

• Schizophrenics may stop taking their medication due to unpleasant side effects or because they feel they have been cured. Hospitalization can ensure that the patient is taking the prescribed medications and also tailor the regimen to the patient.

Therapy

• Schizophrenics may not regularly go to beneficial counseling or therapy sessions. Hospitalization offers group therapy and one-on-one therapy and ensures that the patient receives psychotherapy.