Being diagnosed with schizophrenia and living a normal life proves to be very challenging indeed. Every day is a battle against normalcy and yourself. It may be tough to function normally at the beginning of a psychotic episode but over time, it is manageable.

Schizophrenia is a difficult and painful disorder to live with. It is very tough initially, especially when I start hearing voices or seeing things that others are unable to see. At the same time, it is difficult to deny that my thoughts are not real. However, when I start to believe them, it is even harder for others to understand my actions and words. It is easy for reality to be blurred as I struggled with delusions and hallucinations.

A Routine Helps

Getting into a routine is beneficial for schizophrenics. A good daily routine can help you focus and take charge of your life. Take small steps to further improve yourself daily. Every single accomplishment brings you a step closer to physical and mental self-improvement.

Over the years, I built a routine that I managed to keep. It starts with breakfast and then, 20 minutes of exercise under the morning sun, but now in my home gym. Reading is another activity I enjoy and try to incorporate into my routine. It was difficult to concentrate at first but over time, I am able to read about 20 pages daily. Personally, I noticed that having a routine proves to be helpful as it keeps me focused on my daily tasks and improves my lifestyle. 

Journaling daily also helps me to express myself more freely. It is also to document and keep track of my life so that I can better understand myself and keep improving. Daily struggles can be tough, so reading old journal entries sets a reminder to myself of my progress.

Build a sustainable routine that you can follow if you are just starting. Begin with simple activities to take care of your well-being.

Active Actions To Stay Grounded

It is easy to succumb to extreme paranoia during psychotic episodes. During those moments, it is important to remain calm. My therapist taught me some grounding exercises, which involve focusing on breathing. The goal is to deviate from the anxiousness and try to be calm and collected again.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is also a great tool for schizophrenics. They are simple exercises that can be done to change our thought patterns. So, instead of catastrophizing, CBT helps us to identify the trigger and shift the mindset.

While these exercises are not magic potions, they have helped me numerous times when the going gets tough. Of course, there are episodes when it is really difficult to remain calm. However, it is highly crucial to be grounded during such times. Then, we can be more responsive to the people around us.

Do Not Be Defined By Schizophrenia

Oftentimes, I make impulsive decisions when I am in a psychotic mood. For example, I will cancel the appointments that I had made previously for no particular reason. I will delete contacts of my friends without really realising. That is not wise as I have since realised. I should not allow the delusional moments to dictate my life in reality. I learned to make decisions only when I am calm once again. Understand that it is important to have a life that is not defined by schizophrenia. 

It is not true that schizophrenics are not able to care for themselves. Neither are we incapable of chasing our dreams and being successful. Take a look at Elyn Saks, a professor of law, psychology, and psychiatry! Besides, there are many more successful schizophrenics around the world. 

Do not allow this brain health issue to deter you from leading a fulfilling life. At the end of the day, schizophrenia is only a small part of our lives. Our identity is bigger than this mental health condition.

It is also important to remember that we are all different and that the “normal” way of living may not be for everyone.

Attention, Care, And Support

Being schizophrenic, we may develop strong suspicions (delusions), and this will affect our personal relationships with others. It is common for schizophrenics to push away loved ones or make hurtful comments when they are feeling low or when they are fighting delusions.

Good and strong support from caring family and friends is very important. Build your trust circle and rely on them. They should consist of people who understand your condition and are non-judgmental. Comfort and feeling safe are what you need the most during tough times.

Most importantly, ensure that you have a good psychiatrist and psychologist for professional medical assistance and guidance. Work closely with your psychiatrist to find the suitable medication and the right dosage. A psychologist should be there to provide tools for managing your mismanagement of feelings and mood swings. This helps us to be more resilient and able to lead a fulfilling life. Thankfully, I managed to find a very good psychiatrist and psychologist. They have supported me along my journey and I am very grateful to them.

Do Not Give Up, Schizo Warriors!

At the beginning of a psychotic episode during the initial days when I was first diagnosed, it was so challenging for me to function normally. It was almost impossible for me to do anything. It felt like I no longer had control of my mind. Doing simple tasks like getting up and washing up was a struggle. 

However, with the right medication, persistence, and a routine, living with schizophrenia is manageable. It took years for me to finally understand that my mood swings are just moments of the day that will pass, and I will eventually march on in life. 

We should not allow episodes caused by schizophrenia to take over our lives. Have the courage and strength to take small steps daily and try your best in every way.

When we are feeling low or down, look beyond the situation and persevere, as the rewards are definitely worth the journey. The progress may be slow and not seen immediately, but every single effort that we put in will shape us to be better people, physically and mentally. 

Despite the challenges, life is still worth living. Living independently is also possible. With a good daily routine, exercise, and journaling, anything is possible for schizophrenics. Life improves little by little over time – all it takes is perseverance and passion for life itself.

Just remember, never give up, for there is definitely hope for us Schizo Warriors!

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