Symptoms, Etiology, and Recovery-Focused Interventions for Schizophreniaa

Course overview

As researchers bring new insights to light about schizophrenia and new treatments are developed, the prevailing view today has shifted to that of recovery, defined as a process whereby an individual improves their general wellness and lives life to their fullest potential. This is in stark contrast with the historical view of schizophrenia, in which people assumed that someone diagnosed with schizophrenia would be institutionalized, overmedicated, and unable to function in the real world, offering little hope to those affected by it. Recovery is instead marked by optimism and hopefulness, rather than emphasizing disability or chronicity of impairment, and is predicated upon access to evidence-based interventions and a range of recovery support services. With the right supports, a person diagnosed with schizophrenia can achieve goals such as living independently, engaging in meaningful or productive activity, and maintaining satisfying relationships. The goal of this course is to educate social workers, marriage and family therapists, psychologists, alcohol and drug counselors, professional counselors, and nurses working in health and human services settings about the etiology and challenges associated with schizophrenia, as well as evidence-based interventions for supporting recovery.