1027-How to Support Someone with Psychosis_ 5 Tips
1. Understanding Psychotic Symptoms Psychosis Definition: Includes hallucinations (seeing/hearing things not present) and delusions (firmly held false beliefs). Associated Disorders: Present in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression, and more. 2. Common Triggers and Causes of Psychotic Episodes Stress: A major factor that can trigger or exacerbate symptoms. Medication Compliance: Non-adherence or imbalance can lead to breakthrough symptoms. Physical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, sleep deprivation, and traumatic brain injuries may contribute to psychosis. 3. Strategies to Support Someone with Psychosis Create a Safe Environment: Focus on safety and security rather than challenging their reality. Reduce Stress: Identify and mitigate stressors (emotional, physical, or environmental). Develop an Emergency Plan: Be prepared with a relapse or prodromal symptom plan. 4. Managing Symptoms in Acute Episodes Join Their Reality: Instead of arguing, acknowledge their experience and work on creating a sense of safety. Behavioral Observations: Examine behavior as a form of communication to understand underlying needs. 5. Long-Term Interventions CBT for Psychosis (CBTp): Effective in residual symptoms or remission but not during acute episodes. Motivation and Scaffolding: Help individuals develop motivation for self-care tasks using step-by-step guidance and rewards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices