what do you do when your child is seventeen and a half, schizophrenic, and you are a single parent? Are you forever tied to the same cycle of caring for them in between hospital stays, or is there another way for them to become independant and live a semi-normal life? What does the future hold after their eighteenth birthday?
All of us with sz would like to be able to know what the future holds. But it is excellent news that your daughter is already receiving treatment at an early age. The most important thing is for her to take her medication(s) as prescribed. She may have to try several before finding the right one for her.
I guess you are asking, though, about when she becomes an adult in the eyes of the law. You might help her find a residential treatment program or you might decide to let her live at home. She is apparently going in and out of the hospital right now which is common at first. But I believe she will stabilize at some point. It took me about 7 yrs and 18 hospital admissions before it made sense to me to take the meds. Part of the time I was living on my own, but it was very dangerous because I was suicidal. But the last few years I have been living with my mom and everything is going well. Now, as of the last month or two, I am thinking about getting my own apartment.
Best wishes.
Carolyn
Hello,
A residential option, a halfway house or supported living, could be the bridge between leaving your house and having your child live independently.
I always recommend this kind of living arrangement when a parent has exhausted her capacity for being a caregiver. I wouldn't feel you're abandoning your child, only that you're entrusting him in the care of professionals who could better help him transition into independent living.
The key is to research reputable, above-board homes so you can find the one your child will do well in.
It is definitely possible for someone with schizophrenia to live on their own, be independent, and have a full, productive life. Sometimes transitional living will get them to that point.
Regards,
Christina
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I was 17 when I first got sick. I was committed, by my parents into a state hospital. I spent 11 months there and numerous admissions in the 80's. I am almost 46. I turned my SZA into an illness that I can handle. There is life after the onset of SZA. I worked a number of years, was able to retire. I own my house and two cars. I have a nice little nest egg.
There is life with SZA. There are alot of us that have SZ and have made a good life for ourselves.
I wish you and your child the best.
Dave