SOD Chapter 5 - Subchapter 5 - schizophrenia.life

5.5. MEDICATION ADHERENCE

Discussing medication adherence with a person who has schizophrenia and a substance use disorder is important for effective symptom management and recovery.

If they are taking antipsychotic medications, ask about any challenges they face in following their treatment plan. Listen to any concerns about side effects or other issues they might have. This understanding can help build trust and make it easier for them to talk openly about any problems they’re experiencing.

Example: “How has it been going with your medications? Are they helping, or have you had any concerns?“

Starting a conversation about medication experiences

Talking about medications can be a helpful way to understand how someone feels about their current treatment plan, including any benefits or challenges.

Open-ended questions can create space for them to share their thoughts without feeling pressured.

For example, you might say something like, “How have your medications been working for you? Are there any changes you’ve noticed or things you’d like to talk about?“

Acknowledging side effects and concerns

It’s common for side effects to make medication feel harder to stick with, and showing empathy can create a sense of support.

Sharing something like, “I know medications can sometimes come with side effects that are tough to deal with. Have you noticed anything like that recently?“ can open the door to a more comfortable discussion.

Collaborating with healthcare providers

If there are concerns about medications, bringing them up with a healthcare provider might help.

Gently sharing the idea, such as, “If something feels off about the medication, maybe it’s worth mentioning to the doctor. Sometimes small adjustments can help,” can encourage collaboration without adding pressure.

Recognizing the challenges of dual disorders

Managing schizophrenia symptoms and medications, especially when dealing with other issues like substance use, can be tough. Acknowledging how hard it is can help someone feel understood and supported.

You might say something like, “I know it’s not easy to handle everything at once. Is there anything I can do to make things a bit easier for you?” This can create a supportive environment where they feel heard and cared for.

Routine-building strategies

Finding small ways to build a routine around taking medications might help with consistency.

Talking about ideas, like tying it to an existing habit, could make it feel more manageable.

For example, you might say, “Sometimes it helps to link taking medications to something you already do, like brushing your teeth. Do you think that could work for you?“

Example dialogue about adherence to medication

Caregiver: “How have things been going with your medications? Are they helping you feel more stable, or are there any side effects bothering you?”

Individual: “They help sometimes, but I don’t like how tired I feel all the time.”

Caregiver: “That sounds frustrating. Maybe we could talk with your doctor about options that might reduce that tiredness. Sometimes there are adjustments that can make a difference.”

Patient: “Yeah, maybe. I just don’t want to feel so out of it all the time.”

Caregiver: “That makes a lot of sense. It’s really important for you to feel clear-headed and comfortable. I’ll support you in finding an option that works better.”

This approach encourages open and honest conversations about taking medication as prescribed. It involves talking about any side effects, working together with healthcare providers, and finding solutions that support the person’s overall well-being.

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