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When to seek medical advice
By Mayo Clinic staffIf you have any symptoms of schizophrenia, seek medical help as soon as possible. Schizophrenia doesn't get better on its own, and in fact, usually worsens without treatment. However, if you're like some people with schizophrenia, you may not recognize that you need help or that you even have symptoms. Family and friends, or people at work or school, may be the ones who initially suggest you seek help. Try to listen to them, as they have your best interests at heart.
Getting treatment from a mental health provider with experience in schizophrenia can help you learn ways to manage your symptoms so that you have the best chance to continue on with a productive and happy life. If you're reluctant to seek treatment, try to work up the courage to confide in someone, whether it's a friend or loved one, a health care professional, a faith leader or someone else you trust. They can help you take the first steps to successful treatment.
Helping someone who may have schizophrenia
If you have a loved one you think may have symptoms of schizophrenia, have an open and honest discussion about your concerns. Many people with schizophrenia don't think they need help because to them, delusions and hallucinations are real. You may not be able to force someone to seek professional help, but you can offer encouragement and support and help your loved one find a qualified doctor or mental health provider.
If your loved one poses a danger to himself or herself or to someone else, you may need to call the police or other emergency responders for help. In some cases, emergency hospitalization may be needed. Laws on involuntary commitment for mental health treatment vary by state.
Suicidal thoughts
Suicidal thoughts and behavior are common among people with schizophrenia. If you're considering suicide right now and have the means available, talk to someone now. The best choice is to call 911 or your local emergency services number. If you simply don't want to do that, for whatever reason, you have other choices for reaching out to someone:
- Contact a family member or friend
- Contact a doctor, mental health provider or other health care professional
- Contact a minister, spiritual leader or someone in your faith community
- Go to your local hospital emergency room
- Call a crisis center or hot line
