When you or a loved one experiences symptoms of schizophrenia, one's thought processes, decisions as expressed through behaviors, how one relates to the environment and people and the pursuit of a purposeful life could become burdensome. These symptoms can be powerful enough to diminish one's talents, goal oriented volition and a desire to engage in family and work relationships meaningfully.
We at ASTEP see our support to a family member or care-giver as well as the individual experiencing schizophrenia, as part of a network in the professional mental health community which may include psychiatrists, rehabilitation workers etc. Since the nature of this condition is typically chronic, its long term effects include strained relationships as a result of ongoing distressing communication patterns as well as caregiver stress and exhaustion. Therapeutic work includes helping you and family members recognize better ways to cope and develop effective opportunities to use personal and family's resources.