This book enables the reader to learn information about psychosis and related illnesses, and develop an understanding of the benefits of early intervention in psychosis and skills for a successful interaction with a person with psychosis. It also helps the reader to learn strategies to support a young adult with psychosis in accessing treatment. The first chapter talks about schizophrenia spectrum disorders and its treatment options. Group therapy has shown to be highly effective in addressing symptoms and stressors associated with psychotic disorders. Chapter 2 introduces the different symptoms characteristic of a psychotic episode: positive symptoms, negative symptoms, disorganized symptoms, affective symptoms, and cognitive symptoms. Two associated symptom categories associated are abnormal motor behavior and level of insight. The third chapter provides knowledge that will be helpful in identifying if psychiatric symptoms are present and assisting when there may be concern about psychiatric stability. Chapter 4 builds on the knowledge and the skills that one has acquired and speaks specifically about assessment of safety and intervention strategies. There are a number of potential outcomes that can occur from helping a young adult with psychosis. The individual may require hospitalization in order to ensure safety and allow for the opportunity to reduce symptoms. The final chapter of the book provides a list of resources offering information on variety of mental health conditions and psychology.
