GEODON is used to treat acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder. GEODON is also used as maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder when added to lithium or valproate. For full symptoms and diagnostic criteria, see the DSM-IV-TR® (2000).
GEODON is used to treat schizophrenia. For full symptoms and diagnostic criteria, see the DSM-IV-TR® (2000).
GEODON is used to treat schizophrenia and acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder. GEODON is also used as maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder when added to lithium or valproate. For full symptoms and diagnostic criteria, see the DSM-IV-TR® (2000).
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GEODON is used to treat acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder. GEODON is also used as maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder when added to lithium or valproate. For full symptoms and diagnostic criteria, see the DSM-IV-TR® (2000).
GEODON is used to treat schizophrenia. For full symptoms and diagnostic criteria, see the DSM-IV-TR® (2000).
GEODON is used to treat schizophrenia and acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder. GEODON is also used as maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder when added to lithium or valproate. For full symptoms and diagnostic criteria, see the DSM-IV-TR® (2000).

There is no cure for schizophrenia, but it can be treated. Today there is more hope for managing schizophrenia successfully than ever before.

You can make a difference
Schizophrenia is a difficult disease to live with. Support from people who care can make a big difference. If you are part of the network of people caring for someone with schizophrenia, there is much you can do to help that person get better, including:

  • Simply asking what you can do to help
  • Offering to go along on doctor visits
  • Assisting with daily activities
  • Helping keep track of symptoms and/or medicine schedules

Your support may help lower the chance that symptoms will return.

“Basically, my family refused to let this condition take over my life. They gave me hope.”

—Lauren*

Be positive and supportive
Schizophrenia can make daily activities hard. It’s important to work with the doctor to find an appropriate treatment plan. Figure out ways to help the person you care for follow the doctor’s advice on how best to take their medicine. And remind them that medicine is an important part of their overall treatment success.

Be patient and understanding
People dealing with schizophrenia are often in a state of confusion or fear. It is important that you be kind, and not condescending, when dealing with them. You can help the person you care for by doing the following:

  • Stay calm even when they are agitated
  • Keep instructions and questions simple, and wait patiently for answers
  • Realize that hallucinations and delusional beliefs seem very real to a person who has schizophrenia
  • Allow for alone time when appropriate
  • Watch for signs of suicidal thoughts or actions
  • Understand that social situations can be challenging
  • Discuss which behaviors are okay and which are not

“I ride my bike around my neighborhood. I enjoy it very much. And it gives me a sense of independence.”

—Lauren

Know the symptoms of schizophrenia
It is important that you and the person you care for learn to recognize the symptoms of schizophrenia. If you notice signs that their symptoms may be coming back, tell the doctor right away. Because the doctor could help prevent the symptoms from getting worse.

Know what to do in emergencies
People with schizophrenia—and their friends and family—should know that there are times when medical attention is needed right away. This may mean calling 911 or going to the emergency room. Signs that emergency help is needed include: thoughts of suicide, thoughts of self-harm, or violent behavior.

“Work with the person you care for to determine what to do in case of severe symptoms. Discuss things like when and who to call for help, and which treatments they’re comfortable with and why.”

—Dr. Suarez†

Crisis plan
It’s important to have a plan that guides you regarding what to do in the event of an emergency. Download the crisis plan (PDF) and fill it out, so you and the person you care for will be prepared in advance if they need help.

* Based on conversations with real caregivers and patients.
† Dr. Suarez is a practicing psychiatrist. He did not treat the patients depicted on this Web site. Dr. Suarez received compensation from Pfizer, the makers of GEODON, for his contributions to this site.

Next: Working with the doctor

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E-mail a friend |       
GEODON is used to treat acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder. GEODON is also used as maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder when added to lithium or valproate. For full symptoms and diagnostic criteria, see the DSM-IV-TR® (2000).
GEODON is used to treat schizophrenia. For full symptoms and diagnostic criteria, see the DSM-IV-TR® (2000).
GEODON is used to treat schizophrenia and acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder. GEODON is also used as maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder when added to lithium or valproate. For full symptoms and diagnostic criteria, see the DSM-IV-TR® (2000).
Recognizing symptoms
Tools & resources
Taking care of yourself

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