How Can I Support my Teenager with Schizophrenia?
“My son was recently diagnosed with schizophrenia, at age 15. I’m terrified and overwhelmed, I didn’t even know that this diagnosis could happen for a teen. Do you have advice on how I can help him, as a parent? He’s in therapy with a psychologist, but I want to make sure to support him as much as possible.”
I totally understand you are worried and overwhelmed.
Schizophrenia is a chronic mental health condition that affects how a person perceives reality, experiences emotions, thinks, and relates to others. It usually starts during late adolescence or early adulthood, so your son’s case is not uncommon.
Schizophrenia involves difficulty distinguishing between what is real and what is not. People usually experience hallucinations, delusions, changes in their social relations, motivation and emotional experience, and disorganized speech or thinking.
Whatever you hear, schizophrenia is not down to poor parenting or to personal weakness. It is a brain-based condition influenced by a combination of brain chemistry, environmental factors like stress, and genetics.
Schizophrenia is treatable. With psychological support, social support, and medication, people have stable and meaningful lives. Early diagnosis and consistent support can make a big difference.
His psychologist knows your son’s case, so I would recommend that you talk to him so he can explain how you can best support your son. Very often, family therapy is recommended to support patients with schizophrenia. In addition, it may be a good idea for you to have some therapy to process all the emotions and thoughts you must be experiencing. You are going through a difficult situation, and you need time, space, and support to deal with it.
I hope this helps and I wish you and your son the best of luck.
Regards,
Ana
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