Back in the day, diagnosing schizophrenia felt like taking a shot in the dark.
Many people were wrongfully included in the category and had to struggle with the consequences for their entire lives. Fortunately, all that has changed for the better. Due to the progress of psychiatric science, we now know more about the symptoms of schizophrenia than ever before.
Nevertheless, the manifestations of the condition aren’t set in stone. According to Schiz Life, schizophrenia can come about at any point during one’s life. Even though it is most prevalent among teenagers and young adults, some people develop it as late as their 60s. Due to this, there is no universal course of treatment, no one size fits all type of formula.
About the Treatment of Schizophrenia
It’s no secret that schizophrenia is one of the most severe disorders of the mind out there. Due to this, it requires lifelong treatment that is carried out even after the symptoms have faded. The classic course of action is based around specific antipsychotic medications, as well as psychosocial therapy. This is usually guided by an expert psychiatrist.
Nevertheless, depending on the acuteness of the situation, more people can get involved along the way. A case manager might be assigned to the patient, and he or she will coordinate the actions of a social worker, as well as a psychiatric nurse. In the worst case scenario, hospitalization will be required.
There are many types of pharmaceuticals that can be prescribed to schizophrenia patients. Unfortunately, finding the right one and its appropriate dosage is a process of trial and error. Due to this, many become disillusioned with this treatment method. Nevertheless, it’s important to remember that the right medication can work wonders.
As for psychosocial therapy, there are many facets to it. Patients usually engage in individual sessions, but sometimes the family is included as well. This practice aims to strengthen the social bonds of the patient so that he or she doesn’t fall into the trap of isolation. While this type of treatment is also beneficial most of the time, a need for alternatives has emerged.
The Benefits of Yoga
The mental health benefits of yoga have been long discussed in the medical community. Because it is a mindfulness practice at its core that focuses on inner peace, it has proven to be quite effective in the treatment of anxiety, as well as other mood disorders. But what happens when this unrest is part of a more complex condition?
Generalized anxiety is often a standalone ailment, but it is also part of the larger symptomatology of schizophrenia. Alongside other symptoms of varying severity, it hinders the personal growth of those who suffer from it by trapping them in a perpetually toxic emotional state. So, can yoga counteract that? Clinical evidence would indicate that the answer is ‘yes’.
A review of four studies comprised and analyzed by Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s Department of Rehabilitation Sciences has demonstrated that yoga reduces the stress and anxiety associated with schizophrenia, as well as its symptoms. What is more, it enhances social function in patients and helps them find a beneficial occupation.
This leads to an overall better quality of life among those who battle the condition daily. What is more, regular physical exercise is a good way to keep the side effects of medication at bay. For this reason, yoga is a great add-on to the already existent treatment plan for schizophrenia patients. With the right approach, visible improvement can be achieved.
How to Approach It
The best way to approach yoga therapy for schizophrenia is under strict guidance from a licensed practitioner. But with so many varieties of it out there, which one should you try? Research conducted in 2012 has shown that the most efficient method consists of a combination of asanas and pranayama.
On the one hand, asanas are postures that focus on relaxation, while still maintaining the body firm. On the other hand, pranayama is the practice of controlled breathing through which vital life force is achieved. Together, the two give patients an immense sense of calmness and control over their own movements and emotions.
Final Thoughts
Yoga can indeed be helpful for schizophrenia patients, provided it is approached as an add-on therapy to accompany traditional treatment. A combination of asanas and pranayama is the most suited for this purpose. Meditation is off the table, as it can worsen symptoms. If you think you might benefit from this method, consult with your doctor first.
Alex Moore is a psychology undergraduate and blogger who advocates for mental health awareness in general and a better understanding of schizophrenia in particular. Alex is very active on Twitter @alex_moore01
