13.8  The management of psychoses

Early identification is crucial in the management of psychoses. This is because (as you discovered earlier) treatment can be highly effective if it is provided before the condition has time to deteriorate further. For example, the early identification and treatment of patients with acute psychosis often results in complete recovery. Medication is one central component of treatment for a range of psychoses, and is often highly effective in reducing the patient’s difficulties and providing emotional stability. Here, you should seek to gain the support of the family (or others close to the patient) to ensure their adherence to treatment and to guard against relapse. Adherence means agreeing to and following the advice and treatment prescribed by the health professionals.

Each type of psychosis requires specific management. This will be the topic of discussion for the remainder of this study session.