How to Treat Catatonic Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness that manifests in altered thinking, impaired perceptions of reality, hallucinations, and bizarre behaviour. One type of the disorder is catatonic schizophrenia. People experiencing catatonic schizophrenia may hold themselves completely immmobile, disconnected from their surroundings, and non-responsive to others. They may refused to be moved or speak. Others may exhibit peculiar activities such as making strange expressions or acting inappropriately. Some show excessive movement by turning in circles, flapping arms, or make loud noises. Here is a guide on the common treatments for catatonic schizophrenia.

Things You'll Need

• Hospitalization
• Sedatives
• Antipsychotic medications
• Psychotherapy
• Support of family members

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Instructions

How to Treat Catatonic Schizophrenia

• 1

  Seek medical treatment immediately. A person with catatonic schizophrenia is unable to get medical attention on his own and is at risk for both self harm and harm of others when experiencing episodes of catatonic stupor or catatonic excitement. There is also a danger of dehydration, malnutrition, and exhaustion because the catatonic patient usually will not eat food, drink liquids, or sleep. It is crucial to get the affected person to a hospital for treatment.

• 2

  Get help to take the patient to the hospital. A person in the catatonic state may resist being moved and may need to be carried. Sometimes the person will become violent, fearing movement. It is best to call an ambulance to have medical professionals take the patient to the hospital.

• 3

  Once at the hospital, give the doctors as much information as possible on the patient's medical and mental health history. Provide any information on previous and current antipsychotic medications. This will help the doctors evaluate the patient and determine the best course of treatment.

• 4

  Have the doctor explain the benefits and side-effects of possible treatments. If you are a family member or legal guardian of the patient, you may be asked to okay a particular course of treatment. Most often, sedatives, antipsychotic medications, and psychotherapy are prescribed. Sometimes electroconvulsive therapy is recommended. Use your knowledge of the patient's past health history and successful mental treatments to ask questions about the recommendations. Your doctor will be happy to answer your questions. Once you are satisfied with the answers, you will be able to make an informed decision.

• 5

  After the patient is released from the hospital, make sure he follows all doctor's orders and continues any necessary psychotherapy. A person afflicted with catatonic schizophrenia may need supervision or assistance to take medication regularly, manage any other medical conditons, eat a balanced diet, and keep up personal hygiene.

• 6

  Be a supportive friend or relative. The support of friends and family will also help your loved one recover faster and function in society. There is great hope for a person with catatonic schizophrenia to be able to live a full and productive life with the proper medication and psychotherapy.