Contemporary psychosocial treatment of psychosis--not simple, but many opportunities
Foulds, M.
Australian Family Physician 35(3): 100-104
2006
ISSN/ISBN: 0300-8495 PMID: 16525518 Document Number: 598599
The range of needs of people experiencing schizophrenia or other psychotic illnesses is great, this however provides those treating them with many opportunities for effective intervention. Psychotic medications, while often providing significant benefit, are not the complete answer for patients with psychotic illness. This article outlines approaches to building and maintaining a therapeutic relationship with a patient with psychosis, provides a guide to assessment to assist in treatment planning, identifies some current trends in psychological treatments to augment medication, and examines family support requirements. To maximise patient outcomes in relation to symptom remission, psychological adjustment and return to premorbid functioning, a range of interventions over a period of time may be required. Central to recovery from psychosis may be the support and guidance of a primary care physician who can recruit the assistance of a range of professionals in a timely manner.