Wednesday 22 February 2023

Living well, and dying well, with schizophrenia

Introduction Every day brings us closer to the end of our lives, and how we approach the end of life is something of critical importance. For those with chronic mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia, this phase of life can be especially difficult and complex. Consequently, there is a pressing need for better care and support for those living with these conditions. In this regard, a nursing researcher at the University of Alberta is attempting to make a difference and has proposed changes to the way those with conditions like schizophrenia are cared for at the end of life. Background Schizophrenia is a complex mental illness that affects an estimated 21 million people worldwide, including approximately 300,000 Canadians. For those with chronic mental health conditions like schizophrenia, end-of-life care and support can be especially complicated. This is due to the unique challenges posed by such conditions, as well as the need for specialized care that is often lacking. There is a need for improved care and support for those with mental health conditions as they approach the end of their lives. The University of Alberta Nursing Researcher To address these challenges, nursing researcher Gillian Creese of the University of Alberta is trying to change the way people with schizophrenia and other chronic mental health conditions in Canada are cared for at the end of their lives. She aims to improve care for those with conditions like schizophrenia by creating a framework for better understanding of the needs of those living with these conditions. The Research Gillian is conducting a study on the experiences of those with schizophrenia and other mental health conditions as they approach end of life. She is looking to understand the challenges they face and how we can improve care and support for them as they move towards their final days. Gillian has been collecting data from those with conditions like schizophrenia, as well as from their families and caregivers, to gain insight on their end-of-life experiences. The Findings Gillian’s research has revealed that those living with mental health conditions like schizophrenia often don’t receive the same quality of care and support as those without chronic mental health issues. This is due to a lack of specialized knowledge and understanding of the needs of people with conditions like schizophrenia. In addition, Gillian’s research has highlighted the need for better communication between healthcare providers and those living with mental health conditions, as well as their families and caregivers. The Proposed Solution Gillian has proposed a framework that seeks to bridge the current gaps in end-of-life care for those with mental health conditions like schizophrenia. It includes measures such as increased specialized training for healthcare providers, improved communication between those with the condition and their caregivers, and improved access to specialized services for those with mental health conditions. She also proposes that further studies be conducted to better understand the needs of those living with mental health conditions. Conclusion The end of life can be a difficult time for those with chronic mental health conditions like schizophrenia. To improve care and support for those living with these conditions, Gillian Creese of the University of Alberta is conducting research to better understand the needs of these individuals and their families. Her proposed framework provides a potential solution to the current gaps in end-of-life care for those with mental health conditions and highlights the importance of better communication and specialized training. With further research and the implementation of solutions based on this framework, we can ensure those with mental health conditions receive the care and support they need at the end of their lives.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/living-well-and-dying-well-with-schizophrenia

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