Why Early Intervention?

The earlier the intervention, the greater the chance of a successful recovery!  Those people who receive treatment within six months following the onset of psychosis have a better chance for recovery than those who wait.  The longer the psychosis is left untreated, the greater the disruption may be to the person’s personal life.  Untreated psychosis can disrupt a person’s ability to develop their own identity, form lasting relationships, and establish careers and make future plans.  Relationships with family and friends, at school and at work may be affected.  As well, other problems such as substance abuse (drugs and alcohol), unemployment, and depression may occur.  If psychosis is detected and treated early, many problems can be prevented.  Early intervention is key to an optimal recovery.   

Early intervention provides an holistic care approach to young people experiencing psychosis and works with family and support people as part of the treatment program. Services can include intensive case management, family support and education, and cognitive behaviour therapy.

Early identification, assessment and treatment also lead to better outcomes.  Recovery improves if the duration of untreated psychosis is less than 6 months from the first psychotic episode.  Treating psychosis early significantly increases the person's probability of being able to enjoy a healthy and productive life. 

Goals of Early Intervention Treatment

·  to improve the chances of an optimal recovery

·  to halt or slow the process of the illness

·  to help maintain relationships

·  to keep life and developmental skills intact

· to decrease the secondary effects, eg. dropping out of school, unemployment, depression or homelessness

·  to decrease the risk of suicide

·  to decrease substance use

·  to decrease hospitalizations

·  to decrease the risk of relapse