Sometimes the symptoms of depression are mistaken for schizophrenia. Most schizophrenics respond to medication and drug therapy. The antipsychotic drugs do not cure schizophrenia. They reduce the number of psychotic episodes and help the patient to work more effectively. However, certain patients also suffer from side-effects on account of the antipsychotic drugs.
Hospitalisation also helps.
This enables the person to be under close supervision by trained mental health professionals to confirm that the person is suffering from schizophrenia. Once this diagnosis has been confirmed, treatment can begin. Family and friends must also be supportive of the patient. They must make a sincere attempt to understand what the patient is going through. Family members can also ensure that the patient takes his medicines on time and that he avails of counselling.