If you have schizophrenia , work can be challenging. Completing tasks, attending meetings, and making quotas may seem extra daunting. The reason: Certain symptoms , such as disorganized speech, hallucinations, and inappropriate social behavior, can affect your ability to stay on task, communication skills, and productivity. But research shows the desire to work is strong among people with schizophrenia. Ninety percent want to work or return to jobs they held previously.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292584624d-42cd-4a18-91c4-026936254349 That’s a good thing, since having a job can positively affect people with schizophrenia — in large part because it helps create a consistent schedule. “Routine stability plays a significant role in well-being, especially for individuals with schizophrenia,” says Joy He-Yueya, MD, PhD , a resident in neurosurgery at Stanford University in California who studies the relationship between routine and mental health. “And engaging in a stable daily routine — which includes activities such as employment, among others — has been linked to various physical and mental health benefits.” Working with schizophrenia may feel challenging, but with the right accommodations and a structured network of help, you can feel confident at work. Here’s how to successfully manage schizophrenia on the job.
Stick With Your Medications Stick With Your Medications Schizophrenia treatment typically involves a mix of medications, therapy, and time- and stress-management techniques. No matter your particular plan, it’s critical to stick with it to keep your symptoms in check. Switching medication dosages or skipping therapy sessions can affect symptoms both at home and on the job. If side effects become a problem, ask your doctor about modifying your treatment plan. Never try to taper medications on your own.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762986d8022e-a568-48cb-93da-7f2a4c806207
Minimize Distractions Minimize Distractions Managing schizophrenia symptoms on the job may be easier to handle when outside distractions and the ability to move around are taken into consideration. According to Dr. He-Yueya, sitting still and being in noisy environments are associated with worse psychiatric symptoms and poorer functioning. If these factors are an issue for you, talk to your manager about ways to minimize distractions. This may mean moving to a separate cubicle away from others or creating a hybrid schedule to work in the office some days and from home on others. Be sure to get some movement in during the day, as well. Taking breaks from your job can improve your well-being and performance.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d710f3fc-a007-4136-b4fc-ff8bdffe146f
Negotiate a Flexible Work Schedule Negotiate a Flexible Work Schedule People who have schizophrenia may benefit from creating a fluid workday. Research emphasizes that flexibility while working is important for people with schizophrenia. A few simple adjustments can make a positive difference, such as variable work hours, the opportunity to take on tasks that won’t cause discomfort, and the ability to leave work early if symptoms flare up.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293945269f-f5ad-4944-ace6-783efc7d1ffc Ask your employer if any or all of these options can be made standard for you.
Schedule Regular Check-Ins Schedule Regular Check-Ins Communication is key in the workplace, especially when it comes to meeting expectations. Checking in with your manager on a regular basis, either by email or text, can help keep that communication flowing. e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293493485e-f4f1-4e52-8b05-fcc5026301ce He-Yueya explains that for people with schizophrenia, “Behavioral stability through structured activities, a predictable schedule, and consistent communication correlates with better mental health outcomes and functioning.” During your workweek, arrange for regular updates with your supervisor, so issues are aired and questions can be answered.
Seek Support Seek Support Establishing a network of family , friends, and medical professionals can help you deal with daily stress, says Sandeep Grover, MD , a professor of psychiatry at Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research in Chandigarh, India. An outside support group can step in and identify moments when you may be struggling with symptoms and offer a valuable, neutral point of view before things get worse.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629139f2e08-1b3b-429c-ad52-e5826a10fac0
The Takeaway Holding down a job can be challenging for people with schizophrenia, but the right tools can make a successful work life possible. Work with your manager on accommodations to create a flexible, distraction-free zone to complete work tasks, and check in with them regularly to set clear expectations and track your progress toward your goals. Be sure to follow your treatment and management plan as prescribed.
