According to the Merck Manuals, schizophrenia is the 9th main cause of disability worldwide, accounting for 2.5 percent of all health care expenses in America. It is more common than multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer's. One subtype of schizophrenia is paranoid schizophrenia, which includes the preoccupation with unrealistic beliefs (delusions) and hearing things that are not present (auditory hallucinations). When these delusions and hallucinations become extremely real to the schizophrenic it is very difficult for him to realize he has a problem. Therefore, these individuals can be tough to handle, but not impossible.
Instructions
Handling a Paranoid Schizophrenic
1. Avoid standing in front of him because he may perceive it as confrontational. Instead, stand beside him; this position makes him feel you are with him, observing the "hostile" world through similar eyes. Refrain from direct eye contact with him. It makes him feel penetrated and even more uncomfortable and paranoid.
2. Use indirect words, such as "he", "she", or "they", instead of "I" and "you". They are less personal and are pointed at more general issues, outside of him. Do not try to force him to see your point; instead, try to identify with him. Ensure your attitudes and behaviors match his. For example, if he is angry about an issue show that you are angry as well. It makes him feel understood. When he is undergoing a state of paranoia, do not try to reason with him or confront him on his beliefs, for he is not rational; most likely you will not get through to him.
3. Engage in the mistrust that he has of the world. Accept his reality as your reality. When he is undergoing a paranoid episode, he feels overpowered by the stresses of life and the effects of his psychotic symptoms. Try to find even one believable aspect of his paranoia so you can agree on something he says.
4. The Mayo Clinic states that you should get him treatment if he becomes psychotic. He may deny his illness and may also refuse treatment. If he is a danger to himself and to others, he can be committed to an inpatient unit involuntarily.
5. Share with the individual. Use solid examples (e.g. rebellion stages or failures) you experienced to help him realize that his illness is not responsible for all of his troubles. Make sure your experiences are comparable to his and avoid discussing over-stimulating topics such as sexual problems.
6. Know when to give him company and when to leave him alone. Excessive talk and activity, attempts at emotional connection and questions about his symptoms can cause him to go into psychosis.
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