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Anything Can Be Controlled

I have been diagnosed with schizophrenia for less than two years and I have my symptoms under control through the blessings of anti-psychotic medication. Through my experience with this illness I have learned that anything can be controlled with the right resources and a great outlook on life.

Whether it be asthma, diabetes, a learning disability, or mental illness, you can manage it. Working close with your treatment or support team, medication regimen, and strategic alternatives anyone can succeed at leading a positive lifestyle. Here are some tips I use to live with schizophrenia.

First, I follow a customized routine. I learned that taking my medication at night reduces the side effects of medication which is for me, stiffness. Therefore, I take my medication just before I go to sleep.

Second, I am conscious of my illness. Through conversations with my mother I have learned that sometimes I look as though I am in a daze. This is a negative symptom of schizophrenia, which in general is hard to treat. Negative symptoms include lack of speech, lack of facial expression, and lack of expression in voice. While I am having a conversation with someone I try to blink more subtly and move my head so they don't think I am in a daze or not paying attention to what they are saying.

Third, I research information on schizophrenia so I can be proactive and cope with symptoms. For example, I have studied the different types of symptoms and signs of a relapse.

Finally, I am optimistic about my future with this illness. I still have goals I plan on accomplishing and seek additional support to help me handle this illness. I don't let schizophrenia consume me, I handle it.

Thank you for taking the time out to read this post, I appreciate you and hope you will share your knowledge about schizophrenia to others. To learn more about schizophrenia visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or Schizophrenia Society of Novia Scotia (Canada).
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Comments

Laura said…
You have such a positive way of dealing with your illness. It's amazing. I was watching a program on tv the other day where doctors said that if schizophrenia is caught early then the prognosis is very good. It's so important to know what to do to keep well. You obviously have that area covered.
April 2, 2009 at 8:28 PM
Wanderer said…
You do have a great attitude and I think it will take you far. You also set a great example for people diagnosed with mental illness. Hope is a powerful tool in the recovery process.

Kate
April 2, 2009 at 11:38 PM
tooearly said…
Your attitude in dealing with SZ is awesome. I wish you the best. You are a shining example of how SZ can be managed.
April 3, 2009 at 5:31 AM
Anonymous said…
Hello, A very close frined to me has been diagnoised with schizophrenia this just came on about two years ago. I am hoping that if I share this blog with her she will understand more. I have educated her the best I could and have her involved with alot of different programs. The thing is when she is feeling better, she will not admit she is sick & stops everything. There are also two little girls that have to deal with thier mom & try to understand best they can. I admire you for your research & all that you have over come. I can only hope she will look at you story and see there is hope for her. Thank you for taking your time and sharing your knowledge as well as experiences. Its appreciated more then you know!!
April 3, 2009 at 11:43 AM
Anonymous said…
A panic attack is a sudden surge of anxiety. It doesn’t last long but it is very frightening. Fears of having an attack can make them worse but, with practice, they can be overcome. Each time you stay and deal with the situation you reinforce the fact that nothing terrible happens to you. You do not faint or have a heart attack. Panic attacks don’t stop overnight but with practice they become less severe and will go in time.
_______________
Anxiety therapy technique without medications
September 8, 2009 at 7:36 AM
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