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

• 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.