Important facts about psychosis
Here are a few things to keep in mind as you support your loved one.
1. Recovery is possible.
While it can be overwhelming and scary to see your family member or friend in distress, don’t lose hope. The path to recovery is almost never a straight line, nor does it happen overnight. But with the right support, recovery is possible.
In the United States, about 100,000 young people experience psychosis for the first time each year.
2. This is not your fault.
It’s easy to feel at fault when someone we care for is struggling. But you are not to blame. While the causes for psychosis are still being studied, research has revealed that there are multiple factors that may contribute to risk. It’s important to realize that the health of your brain, like any other organ, can change for any number of reasons and requires similar approaches to diagnosis and treatment as the rest of your body.
3. Early treatment is crucial.
Research has shown that the earlier someone receives treatment for psychosis, the better the chances are for a full recovery. It is important not to wait. If you think your family member or friend may be experiencing symptoms of psychosis or milder symptoms indicating risk for psychosis, contact us so we can help. The Path Program specializes in detecting early symptoms of psychosis and signs of psychosis-risk. In addition to formal intake assessments in the Path Clinic, we offer opportunities for free assessments through our ongoing research.
The support we received from the Path team saved our family. Their inclusive program ensured we didn't feel alone in the journey to getting our son the care he needed and helped our family understand how best to support him.
Heidi
Parent of Path Program participant
4. You are not alone.
Today, nearly half of all teens and 1 in 4 young adults have coped with mental health challenges. This means that most of us will know a family member or friend with mental health challenges who need our support.