How to cope with Negative symptoms of Schizophrenia
Ive been on my meds for about a year now. The positive symptoms (hallucinations) are very much so manageable, but the negative symptoms wont leave me
The main ones that plague me is lack of ability to express emotion. Not to he confused with emotional numbness I still feel emotion. The problem is I have lack of facial expression, and flat voice. I cant react to emotions, I cannot cry, cannot let out anger, cannot look scared, I just always have that stupid blank expression like a robot that I cant get off my *** face. On top of that, disorganized thinking. Its really hard to communicate my thoughts, or even make sense of them sometimes. As a result I cant really have an actual conversation with someone, all I do is rephrase what they say. Also lack of motivation, everything feels like a mountain, and top that with the disorganized thinking. I cant even put together how to do things in my head, let alone bring myself to do them.
Before yall ask, no i cannot get a therapist, no I do not really have a support group/friends (my last delusion made really *** sure of that). Parents are, just no. The medication im on is OLANzapine(10mg) and Sertraline(100mg). I really dont want to switch them, because this is the only medication so far that has workwd for the positive symptoms
I feel like a im inside a robot, this body, this stupid expressionless face is a prison. Anyone with, or has had experience with someone with schizophrenia know anything to help this? Or id this just part of this disease and Im stuck with it for life
@TwoFacedTim I'm really sorry to hear that you're experiencing such challenging symptoms despite being on medication for your schizophrenia. It can be incredibly frustrating and disheartening to feel disconnected from your emotions, struggle with disorganized thinking, lack motivation, and face difficulties in communication.
While I'm not a mental health professional, I can offer some general suggestions. It might be helpful to explore coping strategies that could potentially improve your emotional expression and communication. For example, practising mindfulness or engaging in activities that promote emotional awareness, such as journaling or creative outlets, might be worth considering. Additionally, you could try breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable steps to make them feel less overwhelming.
Since you mentioned not having access to therapy or a support group, I understand that seeking professional help may be challenging. However, if it becomes possible in the future, it could greatly benefit you.
Everyone's experience with schizophrenia is unique, and it's difficult to predict how symptoms may evolve over time. Keep advocating for yourself and consider discussing your concerns and experiences with your prescribing doctor, as they may have additional insights or recommendations.
Take care!