When to Seek Medical Care

If someone who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia has any behavior change that might indicate treatment is not working, it is best to call the doctor. If the family, friends, or guardians of a person with schizophrenia believe symptoms are increasing, a doctor should be called as well. Do not overlook the possibility of another medical problem in addition to the schizophrenia.  

• On a general level, anyone with an acute change in mental status (a noticeable change in behavior), whether diagnosed with schizophrenia or not, should be taken to a hospital or a physician for evaluation. The behavior change may indicate a readily treatable medical illness that, if not treated early, can cause permanent physical damage.
  
  
• Someone with schizophrenia should be taken to the hospital if medical illness is suspected. People with schizophrenia may or may not be able to communicate their symptoms in the same way as someone who does not have schizophrenia. This situation requires a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Moreover, medical illness can aggravate schizophrenia.

Take your loved one with schizophrenia immediately to the hospital and/or call "911;" if he or she is in danger of self-harm or harming others. People with schizophrenia are much more likely than the general population to commit suicide.

• A quick way to assess whether someone is suicidal or homicidal is to ask the questions: "Do you want to hurt or kill yourself?" "Do you want to hurt or kill anyone?" "Are you hearing any voices?" and "What are the voices telling you?" People will tell you what is on their mind and should be taken seriously when they verbalize these thoughts.

Many families fear abusing the emergency medical system when these and similar issues arise. However, if you have any doubts, go to the emergency department. Don't worry about whether the visit should be made. If, afterward, the health concern is found not to be an emergency problem, then everyone is relieved. Likewise, if a medical emergency is found, you have made the right decision. The medical professionals can reassure you that you made the right decision in the face of unknown medical questions about someone else's health.

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