If she's experiencing symptoms that severe (most people experience nothing worse than dry mouth, weight gain or fatigue) she should be switched to another medication. There are lots of medications out there for schizophrenia. It might take some time to find the right one or the right combination. She shouldn't be unable to live her life because of her medication (a lesson I've learned recently). Seroquel is only one of dozens of potential drugs she could be taking. It's not a really uncommon type of drug.

As for help with financial support, you haven't mentioned where you live. I live in Ontario, Canada, and we have ODSP, which is a branch of welfare that deals with people who have disabilities. Your country/state/province/whatever should have something similar. People on disability payments generally get more money than someone on welfare. I also know that ODSP hooks people up with employers who are accommodating when it comes to medical requirements. Try talking to your local social assistance office, and see if they have a disability section.

The best thing for your girlfriend is to, once she's a little less shaky on her feet, try to start doing some volunteer work. I'm coming out of a huge mental health crisis myself (bipolar disorder, which has a lot of the same symptoms). It's not healthy to be cooped up in the house all the time, and will do her more harm than good in the long run. She needs something to get her out and about and socializing with other people in a low-pressure environment. It's nearly impossible to go from shaky to full-time employment, but she'd be able to handle a few hours of volunteering every week. Then it's baby steps up to being able to work part-time, then full-time. She doesn't have to be stuck where she is forever.

Thank you for your input.

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My name is Amanda and I'm 26 years old. I'm currently studying electrical engineering. Armed with a fairly odd sense of humour and a sunny outlook on life, I'll take on just about anything. I'm also cussedly stubborn, which has its ups and downs. Things get tough sometimes, and I've never been one to run from it.

In my last 8 years with Advicenators, I've gone from honours student to failing out of university (and getting back on top again!), from single to married, from tenant to homeowner.

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