While working as psychiatrists, we have the pleasure of working very closely with our patients as well as their friends and family. During these interactions, we get to know a lot about their struggles. In this blog, I want to focus on what we as a community can do to help patients as well as their families dealing with schizophrenia.
I saw an elderly lady admitted to the inpatient psychiatry unit with new-onset psychosis, paranoia, and delusions. The lady had never been diagnosed with a psychiatric illness before. It was really sad to see how someone with a proper job and a family could experience such a drastic change all of a sudden. I will never forget the shared helplessness on her face when she was asked to get an MRI for some of her symptoms, and it was so difficult for her to convince herself to do so when her thoughts were telling her that something bad was going to happen to her. I remember how patiently our doctor explained the whole process to her repeatedly and answered all her questions, at the end to which she gave her consent.
Then there was another autistic patient with mild intellectual disability, who came to the office with her mother due to new onset audio-visual hallucinations and had started responding to some inner as well as outer stimuli. She had been stable on her current medication for years, and these were completely new developments. Her mother was so worried, yet she was an image of strength—listening intently to every word the doctor said, trying to absorb the information, and asking thoughtful questions. Despite her fears, she remained composed, seeking the best possible care for her daughter. This moment reminded me of the immense pressure families face when a loved one develops symptoms of a severe mental illness like schizophrenia.
In these situations, the role of the community becomes crucial. The patient and their family often feel isolated, overwhelmed, and in desperate need of support. This is where we, as a society, can step in and make a difference.
Support can take many forms. It can be as simple as offering a listening ear or providing practical help with daily tasks. For patients, this might involve assisting with appointments, helping manage medications, or simply spending time with them to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Even small gestures, like a regular visit or a phone call, can make a significant impact on their emotional well-being.
Sometimes, it’s about ensuring that both patients and their families have access to the right resources, such as connecting them with support groups or helping them navigate the health care system. Encouraging patients to engage in community activities or helping them find employment opportunities tailored to their abilities can also foster a sense of independence and self-worth.
Additionally, advocacy plays a key role. By working to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and pushing for better access to mental health services, we create a more supportive environment for everyone affected by schizophrenia.
We must remember that mental illness doesn’t just affect the individual; it touches the lives of everyone around them. Families need as much support as the patient, if not more. They are often the primary caregivers, and their well-being is just as important in the recovery process.
Imagine the difference it would make if, instead of judgment or avoidance, patients and their families were met with compassion, understanding, and tangible support from their community. A simple act of kindness can go a long way in lightening the burden they carry. Whether it’s offering to babysit so a caregiver can take a much-needed break, helping a patient with daily tasks, or simply sending a message to check in, these small gestures remind them that they are not alone.
Supporting someone with schizophrenia is a collective responsibility. By being kind, patient, and proactive, we can create an environment where both patients and their families feel supported, understood, and empowered. Let us all strive to be a part of this compassionate community—because when we come together to support each other, we build a stronger, more caring society.
Farees Ahmad Khan, a graduate of Khyber Medical College in Peshawar, Pakistan, is an aspiring psychiatrist with a deep passion for the field. Growing up in a closely-knit family, she is known for her compassion, which is reflected in her patient care. As a good listener, she prioritizes the well-being of her patients. In addition to expanding her knowledge in psychiatry, Farees enjoys immersing herself in fantasy books, finding both inspiration and relaxation in their imaginative stories.
Farees is dedicated to making a positive impact in mental health, both through her clinical work and by sharing her insights with a broader audience. She believes in holistic care and strives to provide compassionate and effective treatment to all her patients.
Sarah Alnaher is a physician.
