Early onset schizophrenia | NURS 6660 – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Role I: Child and Adolescent | Walden University
1. Medication Therapy: Antipsychotic medications such as clozapine, risperidone and olanzapine are effective in reducing symptoms of schizophrenia in adults. Long-term use can help to prevent relapses and improve quality of life. Additionally, psychoactive drugs such as lorazepam or haloperidol may be prescribed to reduce anxiety or control agitated behavior.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a form of psychotherapy that helps people recognize patterns of distorted thinking and learn how to respond more effectively to difficult situations. It is an effective treatment for adults with schizophrenia and has been shown to improve social skills, enhance coping strategies and increase insight into the disorder.
Evidence-Based Treatment Plans for Children & Adolescents Diagnosed with Schizophrenia:
1. Family Psychoeducation: This form of therapy involves educating families about the disease, teaching them how to respond appropriately when symptoms arise, providing support services and helping provide structure within the home setting. Parents are taught techniques that can help their child better manage his/her condition while improving family functioning overall.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Similarly to adults, CBT can also be beneficial for children and adolescents living with schizophrenia by helping them develop strategies for managing stressors more effectively in addition to identifying unhealthy thought patterns in order to modify behaviors accordingly.