For my son, I saw the most success with oral abilify and Haldol injection. With the injection alone, he still lacked drive and desire to get out and do things. When the oral abilify was added, he was able to take college classes, socialize with friends and even auditioned for a school talent show. The Invega seemed to keep the voices at bay for at least the first 3 wks after the injection, (he still heard them but was able to ignore them). The socialization at the hospital seemed to improve his mood too so like your son, he was jovial and comedic when I picked him up when he was discharged. Does he have a hobby-art? music? Perhaps if you can contact your local NAMI chapter if there is one near you, they can offer suggestions for groups he could join,
I pray he improves and that you have moments to just “be”-without worry or fear of him relapsing or worse.
Blessings!!
He likes art & music - up through the first few years of his illness, he was a gifted artist. Now he lacks the focus, and only randomly does a few things. He will still pick up the guitar & play now & then, and he’s got a new interest in plants and will pot a few things for me.
He is in our county’s intensive treatment program & they have tons of groups, even a clubhouse, if he’s participate.
Thanks for the oral abilify & Haldon injection info. I know everyone’s different, but I really like to know what works for other people just in case it’s ever an option.
I know that feeling well. I’m sorry you are there right now. This too shall pass.
Medicine has never been enough for my daughter, and she won’t get counseling. Believe it or not, love and faith do in fact, go a long way. What this looks like is going to be different for each of us. I nourish her with healthy food, supplements, and engaging in conversation and activities that bring out the best. It has been a long road, and still is. I do my best to make her feel safe and loved. I try to keep up with studies for new treatments as well.
Catherine, THANK YOU SO MUCH for sharing your words of wisdom! I’m so new to this journey with my SZ son while on meds (due to a recent mental health commitment) so it’s good to know what I see in my son’s symptoms is similar to what you - and many others here - are seeing in their loved ones during this phase. Take care to everyone here who are “fighting the fight” as I am to help my loved become whole again - whatever that may be.