Paranoia treatment can be challenging not only for the patient but for loved ones. If you have a loved one who is undergoing paranoia treatment they might be using medication in combination with therapy. Once in treatment it is important to keep an eye on their behavior and watch for signs they might be having difficulty or that their condition is worsening. You can assist your loved one by doing the following:
*Watch for Side Effects: As with any medication there can be side effects that may require attention. If your loved one has complaints about medication seek assistance with their doctor in order to see if there is a way to combat the adverse affects in order to keep the patient on board with their treatment.
*Assist with Medication: Even without side effects your loved one might be averse to taking their medication. Your best approach is to make it easy for them to take their medication and attend appointments with therapists. Mark appointments on their calendar and assist them with remembering to take their medication. Consider buying them a pill box with their daily dose. Anything you can do to help them will make their treatment more effective and keep symptoms under control.
*Avoid Drug Interactions: Antipsychotic medications can be dangerous if combined with many different substances. Even natural herbal remedies and vitamins can be dangerous. Make a list of all of the medications they are taking and also make sure they are not using alcohol or illicit drugs. All of these combinations can cause major issues and put your loved one at risk.
*Watch Behavior: Take note of any changes to your loved one’s behavior be it better, worse or just different. Consider using a journal you can share with their doctor as this will help them understand if the treatment is working. Your loved one might not be the best person to speak to their doctor about changes to behavior and mood or even physical side effects from their medication. You can help by providing a journal with dates that show a progression of changes.
*Relapse: It is very common for patients to stop taking their medication. When you can assist your loved one to take their medications they will be more stable and be able to control extreme symptoms. It is important you watch for signs of relapse including:
*Poor sleep patterns
*Withdrawing socially
*Poor personal hygiene
*Paranoia and/or hostility
*Difficult communication without confusion
*Disappearances
*Hallucinations
Helping them maintain their paranoia treatment with these tips will make life easier for both of you.
If you or a loved one are in need of paranoia treatment Salt Lake Behavioral Health can help. Visit for more information on treatments available.
