Psychiatry today

A COMMON SITUATION: Primary care physicians often provide care for schizophrenic patients. The main approaches include drug regimens, psychotherapy and psychosocial support. DRUG THERAPY: Neuroleptics should be given in single drug regimens in a continuous protocol for long periods. Side effects, particularly neurological effects, can be countered with antiparkinson medication. The aim is to reach the best possible balance between the therapeutic effect and side effects. PSYCHOTHERAPY: The general practitioner does not necessarily use sophisticated psychotherapeutic protocols but rather relies on a certain number of attitudes aimed at helping the patient accept the medications and control the main pathological mechanisms the schizophrenic state as expressed in the relationship with the health care provider. PSYCHOSOCIAL SUPPORT: A series of assistance measures (allocations for handicapped adults, adapted housing, protection of property) often involve a team of workers who should all take part in the therapeutic strategy.