Helpful Tips for Better Communication
People with schizophrenia may have a hard time understanding what others are saying. At times, they may also find it difficult to express their own thoughts and needs.
There will probably be times when you'll have to talk with other people to get what you need, which can be stressful.
Examples of situations that some people find stressful when communicating include:
- Telling their doctor, nurse, or case manager exactly what they're feeling
- Talking easily with family or friends
- Answering the phone when someone calls
- Answering the door when someone comes by
- Telling family members they need to be alone
- Riding the bus and/or asking other people for directions
- Talking to the cashier when they make a purchase
- Asking the pharmacist to refill a prescription
- Look — directly at the person you're talking to. If you turn away, you might miss something they wanted to tell you
- Listen — as carefully as you can to what the other person is saying. If you miss something they said, ask them to repeat it or say it in another way
- Share — your own thoughts and feelings about what's been said. It shows that you were really listening
- Ask — for what you want and need. Most people are happy to help once they understand your needs
