Early Intervention in Psychosis
"Early intervention," as it is used here, refers to the early detection and treatment of first episode psychosis. Psychosis is any condition which affects the mind with some loss of contact with reality. First episodes of psychosis are most likely to occur between the ages of 15-35. Symptoms may include confused thinking, false beliefs, hallucinations, changed feelings, and changed behavior. Psychosis is relatively common; it is estimated that as much as 3% of the world's population will experience such an illness at some point in their lives.
Psychosis is damaging and disruptive to a person's life. The longer it goes untreated, the more disruptive it can become, and the more difficult it becomes to treat. Recent evidence has demonstrated that the earlier psychosis is detected and treatment started, the greater the chance for a full recovery, and the faster that recovery is likely to take place. Similarly, the longer the duration of untreated psychosis, the greater the likelihood of more severe and long-term problems.
Research on, and services for, early intervention in psychosis are relatively new to the field of mental health. Some of the key elements of early intervention services may be:
- Comprehensive assessment of the individual with suspected psychosis;
- Individualized treatment combining appropriate drug treatment, psychoeducation, and psychosocial support;
- Family education, support, and inclusion in the therapeutic process;
- Ongoing connections and support for consumers who have left the critical phase of a first psychotic episode but are still going through recovery; and
- Awareness-raising among health professionals, teachers, families, and community members about psychosis and the benefits of early intervention.
While more work and research remains to be done on early psychosis intervention, the field is expanding as knowledge is shared. The number of organizations providing treatment, offering education, and undertaking research is growing in several countries - most notably in Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Western Europe. The hope of these organizations is that, with increased early detection and treatment of first episode psychosis, a growing number of people will experience more rapid and complete recoveries and smoother transitions back to their everyday lives.
In this section of the website you will find information on best practices in early psychosis intervention, relevant publications and reports, and a list of useful links.