How To Overcome Catatonic Schizophrenia

There are several different types of schizophrenia with each one having distinct qualities and treatment approach. It therefore contributes to making it more difficult to deal with this condition. One such type of schizophrenia is referred to as catatonic schizophrenia. To find out more about this type of mental illness and treatment options, read further below to find out. 

Symptoms 

Catatonic schizophrenia is simply a combination of schizophrenia and catatonia. Hence, a patient suffers from incorrect or unusual perception of reality. An individual therefore experiences motor and psychic disturbance syndrome along with hallucinations and delusions. 

There are a few notable symptoms for catatonic schizophrenia that differentiate it from other types of schizophrenia:

• In terms of motor activity, a patient could suffer from one of two extremes: hyper motor activity or loss of motor skills. Some patients have been noted to resist movement. 

• A symptom so-called as catatonic excitement pertains to useless agitation or state of unconstructive hyperactivity.

• Exhibiting waxy flexibility wherein an individual maintains a specific posture over a long period of time.

• Other symptoms include the following: uncoordinated movements, problematic functioning, social isolation, clumsiness, deprived of emotion, angry outbursts, neglect of personal hygiene. 

Treatment Options Available 

Since the emergence of catatonic schizophrenia as one of the most common types of schizophrenia affecting the population, there has been numerous treatment options available for addressing the symptoms. Some of the notable treatment procedures that a patient can try include intake of medications, hospitalization, ECT or electroconvulsive therapy, vocational sklls training, and psychotherapy. You can find out more details about each treatment below. 

Medication 

This is considered as the most basic foundation for the treatment of catatonic schizophrenia. The most common form of medication prescribed for patients of catatonic schizophrenia is benzodiazepines, which is also known as an anti-anxiety medication. This medication is injected into the patient's vein for fast-acting relief against symptoms. 

Another choice of medication for catatonic schizophrenia patients is barbiturates. Other alternative medications include antidepressants and mood stabilizing medications. Both types of medications are intended to control aggressive or hostile behavior. 

Hospitalization

This is required only for patients suffering from a severe case of catatonic schizophrenia. By admitting the patient into a health care facility, they are assured of proper nutrition, hygiene, and expert care. 

Psychotherapy 

There are two components to this type of treatment approach for catatonic schizophrenia: individual and social therapy. In the case of individual therapy, the patient is encouraged to cope with the symptoms of their condition on their own. The focus here is in the acquisition of new skills and improving communication ability. 

In social therapy, it often involves the family members to facilitate in the treatment such that the patient will find it easier to cope with their disorder with enough social support. 

Electroconvulsive Therapy or ECT

In this treatment form, the patient receives electric currents into their brain to induce a brief seizure. The objective with this form of therapy is to make necessary changes into the brain chemistry to improve function and alter brain patterns to restore behavior. This method has been known to effectively address symptoms of catatonic schizophrenia.

Vocational Skills Training

In addition to treatment, this approach is intended to facilitate in the faster recovery and rehabilitation of the patient. During training, a therapist is available to facilitate in ensuring proper hygiene, promoting better communication skills, and engaging in activities that enable catatonic schizophrenia patients to develop new skills. 
