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When should I seek help?
• Early intervention is very important in the treatment of psychosis. The sooner a person
gets treatment, the less likely they are to develop a long-term psychotic disorder.
• If you believe psychosis may be a problem for you, or if you answer yes to any of the
following questions, you should seek professional assistance (see pages 15–16):
Have you experienced hallucinations or delusions?
Are your symptoms very distressing?
Do they interfere with your home, work, study, relationships or social life?
Do you use alcohol, tobacco or other drugs to cope?
Have you thought about harming yourself or others?
How are psychotic symptoms treated?
• Effective treatments are available. Both psychological therapy and medication can help
people affected by psychosis.
Psychological therapy
• Psychological treatments usually involve hands-on support and guidance which is aimed
at teaching you about the early warning signs of psychosis. Treatments are also aimed
at stress management and anxiety, relaxation training, employment programs, social and
living skills training and family education, as well as drug and alcohol programs. These
treatments will also encourage you to keep healthy and get plenty of exercise.
• If you’re interested in seeing a psychologist, your GP can help you by preparing a mental
health plan, and referring you to an appropriate psychologist.
Medication
• Medication may be helpful alongside psychological therapy. There are many different
types of medication, which include anti-psychotic and anti‑depressant medications.
• Medications can be helpful in managing your psychotic symptoms; however, some people
experience unpleasant and distressing side effects. In most instances there is a choice of
medication available, but it may take time to establish which medication is best suited to
your needs. Tell your doctor about any side effects that are distressing you.
Interactions with alcohol, tobacco or other drugs
• It is very important that you follow your doctor’s instructions when taking any medication
that has been prescribed to you.
• Before being prescribed medication it is important to tell your doctor about your alcohol or
other drug use so that they may give you the best possible care. Alcohol, tobacco and other
drugs can interact with some prescription medications and this interaction may alter the
6 • PSYCHOSIS
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substance use