Schizophrenia Treatment - The Basics

Okay... So we have schizophrenia.  Now what??? What is the treatment? Is there a cure?  How can we cope with this?...
When people experience first-episode schizophrenia, (as well as schizo-effective disorder) there is a high response to medication treatment.  Most get substantially better with this treatment, while others have at least some improvement. 
Most people are treated via hospitalization for the first time.  Though it may be an unpleasant experience, it is a sfe place to be.  Generally, the psychiatrists will interview you to get a clear picture of your symptoms.  Then comes the medication.  Since there are side-effects associated with most all medications for schizophrenia, this is usually monitored closely.  This is so the doctors can adjust as necessary.  It generally takes some time for the symptoms to be controlled adequately.  Once you are feeling better and the psychiatrist feels it is time, you will be discharged.  Hospitalization treatment length varies from person to person. 
Once you are discharged, you have the option, which is highly recommended, to join a day program.  This gives you treatment as an outpatient.  These programs assist you in resuming your life.  You will also need to have a psychiatrist, especially for medication management and continuation.  Some hospitals may assign you a case manager, who is someone that will assist you with any problems you may have after discharge, including assistance with disability options, living arrangements, etc.
Once you leave the day program, you need to continue to see your psychiatrist, and also a therapist in many cases, however, this will be less frequent than when in the day program.
Most people experience some improvement within a couple of weeks upon the start of medication treatment.  Just give the treatment time to work and do not get discouraged if it takes some time.
The medications for the treatment of schizophrenia are called anti-psychotics, and are not addictive.  These medications assist in balancing the chemicals in the brain that are causing symptoms.  There is no cure for schizophrenia at this time.
Much research is being done at a rapid rate on schizophrenia and finding a cure.  Approximately 1% of the world's population lives with schizophrenia.  It is a serious mental illness, and should never be taken lightly.  As time goes on, many people who get proper treatment, follow through with their personalized therapy program, and continue medication, feel better and better, as well as more in control of their illness.

*Some of this information was compiled from the following resource: "Diagnosis Schizophrenia: A Comprehensive Resource",by Rachel Miller and Susan E. Mason.  My thanks go out to you for such a wonderful book.  If you are interested in purchasing this book, the cost is $21.95USD