Management of schizophrenia symptoms: Implications for recreation therapy

Abstract

Effective interventions for the management of schizophrenia symptoms have been identified in the literature and have implication for recreation therapy. To prevent enduring negative symptoms that impact cognition, a high level of engagement in daily activity is recommended. Therapeutic interventions that show promise in reducing negative symptoms include participation in art, craft, music, and physical activity. To reduce high rates of distress and anxiety symptoms that exacerbate psychotic symptoms, animal assisted therapy, sensory experiences, and spiritual engagement were found to be effective. Early therapeutic intervention to rediscover a skill, talent, or hobby that establishes a sense of self and social identity may assist with reducing positive symptoms. Self-managed coping strategies such as distracting techniques may reduce auditory hallucinations. As positive symptoms reduce, a reduction of comorbid depressive symptoms may also occur. With reduction of negative and positive symptoms, as well as comorbid distress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms, individuals have an increased opportunity to attain their social and leisure goals.