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Symptoms of psychosis are treatable and full recovery from a first episode of psychosis is common. The main characteristic of psychosis is a heightened sensitivity, including sensitivity to: incoming sensory information (sights, sounds, smells, touch, movement, prolonged stress and strenuous demands, rapid change in expectations, events, or routines, complexity of situation (a lot going on at once), social disruption, illicit drugs and alcohol and criticism or lack of warmth.
It’s no one’s fault – neither the symptomatic person nor the family is to blame for this sensitivity. Symptoms of psychosis should not be ignored because the longer they exist, the less chance there is for effective treatment and complete recovery.
The early experience of psychosis can be extremely confusing and traumatic for both the young person and his/her family. Symptoms can cause considerable distress and disruption to their lives.
Psychosocial interventions can be very effective. These are aimed at reducing stress and stimulation and teaching coping strategies for both the individual and family. Treatment requires a comprehensive biopsychosocial approach and a range of specialized treatments that address not only the specific symptoms, but also the impact of these symptoms on the person and his or her family.
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