MySchizophreniaTeam2

It's important to understand that violence and aggression are not typical features of schizophrenia. In fact, people with schizophrenia are much more likely to be victims of violence than to cause it… read more

It's important to understand that violence and aggression are not typical features of schizophrenia. In fact, people with schizophrenia are much more likely to be victims of violence than to cause it. However, if you find yourself in a situation where someone is showing signs of aggression, here are some key safety tips:

• Stay calm and speak in a soft, steady voice
• Keep your distance and ensure you have a clear exit path
• Avoid sudden movements or staring directly at them
• Use simple, clear language
• Don't try to physically restrain them
• Remove any dangerous objects from the area Having a safety plan in place is crucial. This should include:

• Having a phone nearby for emergency calls
• Identifying a secure room with a lock if needed
• Sharing your safety plan with trusted friends or neighbors
• Knowing when to call for professional help
• Being aware of early warning signs like rapid speech, pacing, or withdrawal

If you ever feel your safety is at immediate risk, don't hesitate to call emergency services for help.

MySchizophreniaTeam2

How can I get long-term hospitalization for a family member with schizophrenia?

Long-term hospitalization may be necessary when someone with schizophrenia
• Is experiencing severe symptoms or… read more

How can I get long-term hospitalization for a family member with schizophrenia?

Long-term hospitalization may be necessary when someone with schizophrenia:
• Is experiencing severe symptoms or episodes
• Has thoughts of self-harm or harming others
• Needs supervised medication changes
• Is experiencing severe medication side effects
• Has substance use that interferes with treatment
• Requires specialized treatments best provided in a hospital setting There are several types of facilities that provide inpatient care:
• General hospitals with psychiatric wards
• Private psychiatric hospitals
• Public state-run psychiatric hospitals

If your family member refuses treatment, you may need to consider:
• Involuntary commitment - when they cannot meet basic needs or are in danger
• Conservatorship - legal authority to make medical decisions on their behalf

It's recommended to consult with mental health professionals or legal experts to understand the best options for your specific situation, as guidelines vary by state.

MySchizophreniaTeam2

The volume and intensity of voices can vary significantly from person to person and even change over time for the same individual. Some people hear voices that are loud and clear, while others… read more

The volume and intensity of voices can vary significantly from person to person and even change over time for the same individual. Some people hear voices that are loud and clear, while others experience them as quiet or muffled. These variations are a normal part of experiencing auditory hallucinations.

Here are some factors that can influence voice intensity:
• Stress levels
• Anxiety
• Lack of sleep
• Feeling isolated
• Feeling overwhelmed The good news is that treatment can help manage these voices. While antipsychotic medications may not completely eliminate the voices, they can often make them quieter and more manageable. Working with a healthcare provider to find the right treatment plan is essential for managing these symptoms effectively.

MySchizophreniaTeam2

Yes, people with schizophrenia can hear voices while they are speaking. These auditory hallucinations can feel very real - in fact, brain scans show that when people hear these voices, the same parts… read more

Yes, people with schizophrenia can hear voices while they are speaking. These auditory hallucinations can feel very real - in fact, brain scans show that when people hear these voices, the same parts of their brain activate as when hearing real people talk. The brain may be misinterpreting the person's own thoughts as if they're coming from external sources.

These voices can vary greatly in how they present:
• They might be loud or quiet
• Sound male, female, or childlike
• Feel like they're coming from inside or outside the head
• Be a single voice or multiple voices talking Sometimes people may respond out loud to these voices without realizing they're talking to themselves. The voices can range from being pleasant to annoying or even abusive. While this can be distressing, it's important to know that antipsychotic medications can help make the voices quieter and more manageable, even if they don't completely go away.