REHABILITATION
Rehabilitation emphasizes social and vocational training to help people
with schizophrenia participate fully in their communities. Because
schizophrenia usually develops during the critical career-development
years (ages 18 to 35), the career and life trajectories for individuals with
schizophrenia are usually interrupted and they need to learn new skills
to get their work life back on track. Rehabilitation programs can include
employment services, money management counseling, and skills training
to maintain positive relationships.
FAMILY EDUCATION AND SUPPORT
Family education and support teaches relatives or interested individuals
about schizophrenia and its treatment and strengthens their capacity to aid
in their loved one’s recovery.
COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that focuses
on changing unhelpful patterns of thinking and behavior. The CBT therapist
teaches people with schizophrenia how to test the reality of their thoughts
and perceptions, how to “not listen” to their voices, and how to manage
their symptoms overall. CBT can help reduce the severity of symptoms and
reduce the risk of relapse. CBT can be delivered individually or in groups.
SELF-HELP GROUPS
In self-help groups for people with schizophrenia, group members support
and comfort each other and share information on helpful coping strategies
and services. Professional therapists usually are not involved. People in
self-help groups know that others are facing the same problems, which can
help everyone feel less isolated and more connected.