Home remedies for schizophrenia

Home care cannot treat schizophrenia, which needs a psychiatrist. It does, however, matter a great deal for recovery. Families and carers can help the person stay on treatment, stay safe and rebuild daily life.

Support medicine and care

• Help the person take medicine at the same time each day, using a pill box or reminder. Never stop it suddenly, even if they seem well.
• Keep follow-up visits and note any side effects such as stiffness, restlessness, weight gain or drowsiness to tell the doctor.
• Learn the early signs of relapse, such as poor sleep, suspiciousness and withdrawal, and call the doctor early.

Create a calm home

• Keep a regular routine for sleep, meals, bathing and activity.
• Reduce noise, conflict and criticism. Speak calmly, with short, clear sentences.
• Do not argue with delusions or voices. Acknowledge the feeling ("that sounds frightening") without agreeing with the false belief.
• Give small, simple tasks and praise effort.

Safety

• Remove access to alcohol, drugs and any harmful items.
• Keep medicines locked and supervised.
• Stay alert to talk about self-harm. If the person is a danger to themselves or others, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital.

Healthy habits

• Regular sleep, daily walks and sunlight.
• No cannabis, alcohol or other drugs, which can worsen symptoms and bring on relapse.
• Limit caffeine and avoid smoking, which also affects the dose of some medicines.

Support for carers Caring is demanding. Join a family support group, take breaks and ask for help. Tele-MANAS (14416) and local psychiatric services can guide you.

Ayurvedic view (interpretive) Calm routine, regular sleep and light food are traditional and match good care. They are supportive only.

Avoid Avoid faith healers or treatments that delay medical care, and avoid physical restraint or harsh punishment.

Remember Kindness, routine and steady treatment help more than anything else at home.