Along with medication, social therapy and rehabilitation are very important tools in the treatment of this disease. Depending on the severity of the symptoms and the stage of the illness, the individual with schizophrenia may have to be treated in the hospital, especially if acutely ill. Other individuals are able to manage their disease outside the hospital with regular visits to their doctor, and other support staff. The family is very important in treatment of individuals with schizophrenia. Family counseling is often recommended to understand and manage problems associated with the disease.
Education is extremely important.
Persons with schizophrenia and caregivers should learn all they can about the treatments and therapies offered, to be able to take an active role in the management of the disease. As a result, people living with schizophrenia no longer have to be hospitalized for years. Many are able to live in the community. There are well over 30 different antipsychotics available in North America. Although antipsychotics are the main drugs used in the treatment of schizophrenia, other drugs are often prescribed to treat other symptoms like anxiety, and sleeping difficulties that frequently afflict those with the disease.