Schizophrenia is difficult to live with-not just for the individual diagnosed, but also for their family, partners and friends. Communication can often be particularly affected-by both misunderstandings and isolation or the strain of living with and trying to manage the condition. However, it is possible to enjoy good and supportive relationships.
Those with schizophrenia might experience hallucinations, delusions and disordered thinking.
As a result it may be difficult for the individual to clearly express what they are thinking, and may be difficult to understand what other people mean. They may seem withdrawn, keep themselves to themselves or respond in a strange way. It is crucial to accept that this behaviour is due to the schizophrenia and is not related to how they feel about loved ones.
Effective Steps To Take
- Active Listening & Patience
One of the most important things to remember while communicating is the ability to actively listen. This means taking the time to listen to the person without jumping in to interrupt or refute their statements.
- If you find yourself hearing things that seem strange or untrue to you, simply listen. Use empathy by saying something such as, “I can see that you’re worried,” rather than, “You have no need to be worried.” Patience also plays a key role as people with schizophrenia sometimes need more time to hear or respond.
- Simple, Clear Communication
Always speak simply, clearly, and concisely. This means keeping sentence structure as uncomplicated as possible and avoiding the use of figurative language that may lead to misunderstanding.
- Simple, direct questions help prevent confusion. Keeping the discussion safe allows the individual to speak openly. This can sometimes be made easier by using gestures or by writing down the important points.
- Encourage Open Dialogue
This process will not work if the individual is isolated. You need to encourage open and honest dialogue between yourself and your loved one, emphasising that whatever the person feels or thinks is safe to share. Consistency and reassurance will help greatly. It can even be beneficial to schedule time in your daily routine for just a few minutes of uninterrupted talk.
- Set Boundaries & Practice Self-Care
This can sometimes be overlooked, but your own emotional well-being must also be a priority. Set healthy boundaries so that you can remain a source of comfort without burnout.
Talk to family and friends, see a therapist or counselor, and join a support group so you have someone to help you with the challenges and can maintain patience.
Involve Professional Support
Talking to a professional will go a long way in enhancing the communication between you and the person experiencing schizophrenia.
Psychology, psychiatry, and therapy can give individuals many tools in relation to understanding the condition, learning ways to cope, and reducing overall stress and confusion. Family therapy and couples therapy can also prove invaluable.
Helpful Resources
NHS – Psychosis overview and symptoms: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/psychosis/symptoms/
Mayo Clinic – Schizophrenia symptoms & causes: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms-causes/syc-20354443
WHO – Schizophrenia fact sheet: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/schizophrenia
NIMH – Schizophrenia topic page: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/schizophrenia
NHS – Schizophrenia treatment options: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/schizophrenia/treatment/
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