Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia can be a chronic and debilitating illness that affects how a person thinks, feels and behaves.
Traits
- Individual may appear distracted at times
- Conversation may be disjointed with no obvious connection between sentences
- At times may appear to lack motivation
- Disrupted or deprived sleep patterns, resulting in tiredness
- The individual may demonstrate a pattern of irrational behaviour, paranoia or phobias
- May start to avoid social interaction
- Deterioration in appearance or personal hygiene.
Potential impact on daily life and employment
- This can vary massively depending on the severity of the condition, but can lead to social exclusion
- Diagnosis may have an emotional impact on the individual and/or their family and friends
- At times behaviour may be considered to be unconventional.
Support in the workplace
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Additional support may be required in the first few weeks as the individual familiarises themselves with their environment and colleagues
- Ask the individual how they can adapt their own coping strategies into a workplace context – they know what triggers a change in their behaviour
- Make sure job expectations are clear
- With the individual’s approval, educate work colleagues on the condition. Consider a workplace buddy or mentor to provide personal support
- Consider environmental issues that may have a negative impact on behaviour (eg. noise, smell, touch or movement)
- Use flexible working practices to allow the individual to make up for lost time
- Gain emergency contact details from the individual and understand when these should be used
- Keep a positive and supportive approach – focus on building confidence and self-esteem.
Source; The Schizophrenia Fellowship, 2014.