Resources
Why is getting help early important?
The timing of professional intervention is crucial in managing a first episode of psychosis. Research shows that addressing symptoms of psychosis early on can improve a person’s outcomes. In simpler terms, the sooner an individual receives support, the better their chances are of a positive response to treatment and a path to recovery and well-being.
Recognizing Early Warning Signs
Recognizing the early warning signs of someone experiencing an early episode of psychosis is the first step towards treatment and recovery. Not every individual experiences or shows the same signs. Importantly, the below possible warning signs should be new or different for the individual (i.e. not something that has been typical for them) and can include:
- Difficulty telling reality from fantasy
- Confused speech or trouble communicating
- Talking, mumbling, or laughing to oneself
- Change in performance at school or work
- Change in social life (starting to isolate)
- Showing emotional responses that are not appropriate to the situation
- Trouble thinking clearly and logically
- Suspiciousness, paranoid ideas, or uneasiness with others
- Expressing fears of being watched or followed (e.g. needing curtains closed)
- Unusual or overly intense ideas, strange feelings or a lack of feelings
- Decline in self-care or personal hygiene
- Disruption of sleep, including difficulty falling asleep and reduced sleep time
What is the best treatment for psychosis?
Every individual’s experience with psychosis is unique, meaning treatment approaches might vary based on a person’s needs. While one-size-fits-all doesn’t apply here, evidence-based practices emphasize a multidisciplinary approach for optimal results.
Here’s a look at some core interventions:
Medication Management
- A psychiatrist or prescriber can help address distressing positive symptoms with medication. Shared decision making includes the person in the process of identifying optimal dosages that maximize benefits and minimize side effects according to the person’s preferences. Finding the right medication can take time, and having open communication about what is working and what is not can make the process more successful.
Psychotherapy
- Therapists or counselors can facilitate open and non-judgmental conversations, as well as more structured sessions, that can assist individuals in gaining insights into their experiences and learn coping mechanisms and ways to navigate life with psychosis. There are a number of therapeutic interventions for psychosis, but the evidence base has most strongly recommended Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Psychosis (CBTp) which focuses on reframing beliefs and Individual Resiliency Training (IRT) which focuses on educating the individual so they can be an active participant in their treatment.
Family Education
- Evidence has shown that outcomes improve when natural supports are educated around psychosis, methods for communication, and have their own supports for self-care. There are a number of resources available for families including communication tips and techniques as well as support groups to connect with other families.
Peer Support
- For someone experiencing psychosis, there's something profound in connecting with someone who's "been there” themselves. Certified Peer Support Workers (CPSWs) offer a safe space for individuals to share, relate, and feel comfortable knowing they're not alone.
Occupational Therapy
- Individuals experiencing psychosis may have changes in their thinking that can impact their ability to function in school, work, or daily living. By enhancing and learning new daily life skills to manage symptoms, occupational therapy supports individuals in achieving independence and improving their overall quality of life despite the challenges posed by psychosis.