1. Get a Proper Diagnosis
Symptoms of catatonic schizophrenia vary between extreme hyperactivity and constant stupor. The patient may refuse to communicate with others, stand in a fixed position, resist efforts to move him, or take on a strange or inappropriate posture. Conversely, he may display signs of increased or agitated activity, move suddenly and spontaneously and act without regard to surrounding circumstances. Signs of catatonia can appear in a number of different conditions, so it is important to get a thorough diagnosis. Brain and blood tests rarely show signs of schizophrenia, so doctors may ask questions about the patient's previous behavior and try to find signs of schizophrenia from there.
2. Administer Sedatives or Antipsychotic Medication
Sedatives can be used to manage the manic elements of catatonic schizophrenia, while antipsychotic medication can modify the intensity of other schizophrenic symptoms. Most antipsychotic drugs prescribed these days are "atypical," which means they were developed within the last 15 years and contain fewer side effects than older antipsychotic drugs. It is very important to take medication as directed. Many schizophrenics go off their meds, and catatonic schizophrenics have considerable difficulty adhering to a proper medication schedule. Family members or caregivers may need to be on hand to ensure that the drugs are taken properly.
3. Address the Schizophrenic's Physical Condition
Catatonic schizophrenia presents serious challenges to even the most basic activities. Patients run the risk of injury during manic episodes, and can suffer from dehydration or malnutrition if no one is present to look after their needs. Personal hygiene may deteriorate, and other medical conditions may be neglected as the schizophrenic declines to take medication or follow a doctor's advice. Exhaustion and associated conditions are common as well. Because of this, catatonic schizophrenics often require long-term care around the clock. Hospitalization in a proper setting may be necessary, and even those who remain at home will need qualified care from family members or trained medical staff on the premises.
4. Look Into Therapy Options
Psychotherapy is not a cure-all for catatonic schizophrenia, but it can help mitigate the worst effects of the condition in some cases. In addition to teaching the schizophrenic how to cope with his symptoms more effectively, therapy can help develop social skills and allow him to contribute more directly to his health and well-being.
Other forms of therapy such as electroconvulsive therapy may prove useful in mitigating the effects of the condition. Family members and caregivers may benefit from family therapy as well. This educates them about the condition and teaches them coping skills so that they can address their loved one's symptoms more positively than they otherwise might. Not every catatonic schizophrenic responds to therapy, and even those who do will still require additional efforts to see to their comfort and well-being.
