Module 2 - Summary Strategies for early assistance Early intervention in psychosis may help to prevent the biological, social and psychological deterioration that can occur in early psychosis. Delayed treatment can allow progression to severe or chronic mental illness, with associated personal and social consequences, but understanding factors that cause delay may minimise this problem. Pathways to care are diverse, and inappropriate referrals are relatively common. Primary care professionals, families and friends can have difficulties recognising psychosis, and early symptomatology can be confusing.
People are often reluctant to seek help because of stigma, fear, denial and lack of knowledge.
Services can be inaccessible and may not be geared towards treating early psychosis. Some people are at a higher risk of delayed treatment, such as the homeless, those with alcohol or drug problems and those with personality disorders or intellectual disability. This module describes two services that have been developed in Melbourne, Australia, to promote effective strategies for early assistance.