Developing coping skills for schizophrenia

Since there is no manual that comes with instructions on how to cope with schizophrenia, I thought it appropriate to provide somoe coping skills for those living with schizophrenia and also those family members living with someone afflicted.
Integratuion can be stressful, as it can also be depressing, anxiety-provoking, etc.  A major issue is to become educated on the illness.  Since this is such a misunderstood illness, it is essential to eduate yourself and your family as much as possible on the information available about schizophrenia, as well as coping skills, and management of symptoms.
This illness affects every aspect of life, therefore, it can have a serious affect on health, work, socialization, as well as relationships. Living with schizophrenia requires one to have a long-term mindset.  This means accepting the illness, that it is a long-term (usually lifetime) illness, and that there is a necessity to acquire new learning skills and coping skills as well.
If you are a family member, the stress associated at the onset of this diagnosis will change over time, as you adjust to the situation, limitations, needs and other associated issues surrounding the loved one with schizophrenia. 
Often times, those afflicted may not have insight into the illness, and also may be their own worst enemy.  They may not recognize that they are ill and in need of help and services.   It is important for the garegiver(s) to recognize this, and be open to understanding that the afflicted person may need assistance in a small or a very large way.
Realize that the person afflicted will probably have to take medication for the rest of his/her life.  There are also ups and downs throughout the course of this illness, so be prepared for them, in a positive and understanding way.
Improve communication skills.  Those of us afflicted with schizophrenia (especially paranoid type) may be fearful of communication.  Try to make this as comfortable and relaxing as possible.  Remember to take things slowly, and go at the pace you/or the loved one can go.  Encourage communication, enhance skills by slowly introducing people back into the life of the schizophrenic, and be patient.  Due to difficulties in processing, or because of anxiety or a myriad of thother reasons, be understanding that the afflicted may not quite understand what someone is trying to communicate.  There is a general lack of motivation in many or most people with schizophrenia, so encourage slow integration into different activities, and be patient.  This lack of motivation is not laziness, it is part and parcel of the actual illness.
Family members should respect the body language of the family member afflicted with schizophrenia.  If he/she appears upset, aggitated, anxious, be aware and give that person the space he/she needs to cope with these emotions and feelings. 
Stress reduction is essential.  Stress is particularly toxic to those afflicted with schizophrenia.  Many with the illness, are likely to be sensitive, so please know that stress can bring on symptoms, cause symptom flare-ups, and cause emotional turmoil.  Some signs of stress are: sleeping issues, anger, irritability, fatigue, physical issues, etc.  One way to help reduce stress is to get a pet for the one afflicted with schizophrenia.  This can reduce stress immensely and also give the person some responsibility he/she will be able to handle.  Animals can lower blood pressure, ease anxiety, and also provide self-esteem enhancement.
Exercise and physical activity is also essential.  This may not be easy to begin, however, even just a few minutes a day can help tremendously, and can also encourage more and more physical activity.  Big self-esteen builder and stress reliever.
Hobbies are also very helpful  for persons with schizophrenia.  Encourage yourself, or family members, encourage your loved one to return to or pick up a new hobby.  Even if it is only a few moments a day to begin with, it is a start.  Art, music, drawing, gaming, there are so many available, including writing, reading, as well...and this can and is very beneficial.
Tomorrow I will discuss further more coping skills and realted issues associate with schizophrenia!