Psychosis – Know the early signs and how to get help

The early signs of psychosis are quite broad and can point to other conditions. Psychosis is treatable, especially when diagnosed early. That’s why it’s important to be aware of the early signs, and to contact your health-care professional or Mental Health and Substance Use services if you are concerned about yourself or a loved one.

Each individual is unique and no two individuals will have exactly the same symptoms or warning signs, but one or more warning signs are likely to be evident. These signs are particularly important if they are new or have worsened in the last year:

• Feeling suspicious and worried
• Confused thinking and behaviour
• Severe sleep disturbances
• Social isolation

If you or someone you know suspects a psychotic episode, or are showing the early signs of psychosis, where do you begin?

Karen O’Neill is a practice lead with Mental Health and Substance Use Services Network at IH. “We like to say, ‘Any door is the right door.’ Diagnosis often starts with a family physician. But a young person can refer themselves without a diagnosis by calling 310-MHSU directly,” she says.

“We can do a screening and assessment, and then refer you to the EPI services in your area without having to go to a doctor first,” Karen adds.

For many, the first episode can be the last, which is why early intervention is so important. In fact, there’s medical proof that early intervention:

• Reduces suffering
• Decreases the duration of the psychosis
• Lowers medication use
• Decreases the chances of an episode happening again

Early intervention in psychosis is also important to minimize disruptions in a young person’s life. Intervention offers recovery, increases resiliency and self-determination, and minimizes the chances of a future episode.

Here is some of the feedback and messages our clients have shared with us:

“My case worker is a knowledgeable, caring, competent worker who helps me navigate through the journey and the system. She always makes me feel heard."

“[Interior Health’s] EPI services got me out of my house, giving me something to do, which has been very helpful to have to help me get out of bed. I felt welcomed and the staff has been very kind to me.”

“I am very pleased that my son is finally getting all the consistent support he needs to stand any chance of recovery. Prior to enrollment in the EPI program it was a devastating roller coaster.”

Education and engagement are an important part of what we do within the Early Psychosis Intervention Program. Our EPI teams across IH appreciate and welcome opportunities to connect with colleagues, families and communities about our program.

If you would like to learn more about psychosis, or have an event happening which you would like us to be a part of, please email Alicia Vicic, EPI regional nurse educator, Interior Health North.