"Schizophrenia is not the dreaded disease it was about 30 years ago. Now, with early diagnosis, speedy initiation of treatment, careful monitoring of medication, regular follow-up, proper residential, vocational and rehabilitative support systems in place, the long-term outcome is quite favourable." -- A psychiatric professional
"Health professionals talk about how things could be or should be. The way things are is that many crucial support systems do not exist. As a result, schizophrenia becomes a living hell for the sufferer and his family." - Parent of a young man with schizophrenia
"HOW CAN WE FIND APPROPRIATE MEDICAL HELP?"
Many families are shocked when they try to find a doctor for a relative with schizophrenia. It seems that very few doctors either know about, or have any interest in, schizophrenia. There is no easy solution to this problem.
First of all -- schizophrenia can resemble other diseases, so assessment and treatment must involve well-qualified people. Furthermore, since schizophrenia is a chronic illness, continuing medical care and prescription medications are needed. As prominent psychiatrist Fuller Torrey says, "There is no avoiding the doctor-finding issue."
One way to start is to ask someone in the medical profession who they would go to if someone in their family had schizophrenia. Another way is by talking with other families who have an ill relative. They will often be able to put you in touch with the best resources in your community, and save you a lot of time and frustration. Sharing this type of information is one of the most valuable assets of your local B.C. Schizophrenia Society branch, and is an important reason to join the organization.
Besides finding someone who is medically competent, you need to find someone who is interested in the disease, has empathy with its sufferers, and is good at working with other members of the treatment team.
As Dr. Torrey points out: "Psychologists, psychiatric nurses, social workers, case managers, rehab specialists and others are all part of the therapeutic process. Doctors who are reluctant to work as team members are not good doctors for treating schizophrenia, no matter how skilled they may be in psychopharmacology."
Specifically, you need to find a doctor who:
Believes schizophrenia is a brain disease Takes a detailed history Screens for problems that may be related to other possible illnesses Is knowledgeable about antipsychotic medications Follows up thoroughly Adjusts the course of treatment when necessary Reviews medications regularly Is interested in the patient's entire welfare, and makes appropriate referrals for aftercare, housing, social support, and financial aid
