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The West Kent & Medway Early Intervention in Psychosis Service

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<strong>Kent</strong> and <strong>Medway</strong><br />

NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>West</strong> <strong>Kent</strong> & <strong>Medway</strong> <strong>Early</strong> <strong>Intervention</strong><br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>Psychosis</strong> <strong>Service</strong><br />

Better Together


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What is psychosis<br />

‘<strong>Psychosis</strong>’ is the term used to cover a number of experiences, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g<br />

hear<strong>in</strong>g “voices”, hav<strong>in</strong>g unusual or frighten<strong>in</strong>g ideas, and a loss of energy or<br />

drive. <strong>Psychosis</strong> can produce a change <strong>in</strong> th<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g (e.g. jumbled thoughts),<br />

feel<strong>in</strong>gs (e.g. feel<strong>in</strong>g low or lack<strong>in</strong>g emotion) and behaviour (e.g. isolat<strong>in</strong>g<br />

yourself). It is most common for these problems to beg<strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong> people aged<br />

between 14 and 65 years. It is not uncommon and approximately four out of<br />

every 100 people will experience a psychotic episode at some time <strong>in</strong> their<br />

lives. <strong>The</strong>re is much that can be done to help, and most people make a full<br />

recovery.<br />

What causes psychosis<br />

Some people have a greater risk of develop<strong>in</strong>g psychosis. <strong>The</strong>re may be a<br />

biological/genetic connection, i.e. hav<strong>in</strong>g a family member who has<br />

experienced psychosis can <strong>in</strong>crease risk. However, many people who develop<br />

psychosis have no history of psychosis <strong>in</strong> their immediate family. <strong>The</strong>re are also<br />

social and environmental factors that may <strong>in</strong>crease risk, such as extreme<br />

exposure to stress, illicit drug use (e.g. cannabis), abuse (i.e. physical, emotional<br />

or sexual) and trauma. In other words there are a number of factors that may<br />

make someone more vulnerable to develop psychotic problems. This is<br />

referred to as the ‘stress-vulnerability model’.<br />

<strong>Psychosis</strong> rema<strong>in</strong>s a complex condition that is not fully understood (for example,<br />

we still do not know why some people develop psychosis and others don’t). It is<br />

an illness that cont<strong>in</strong>ues to be the focus of extensive research. <strong>The</strong> cause and<br />

outcome of psychosis varies from person to person. <strong>The</strong> way we cope with<br />

unusual experiences and how they affect us will <strong>in</strong>fluence the outcome.<br />

3


Effects of psychosis<br />

<strong>Psychosis</strong> can <strong>in</strong>fluence the follow<strong>in</strong>g:<br />

Cognition – thought processes, ideas and memories, e.g. rac<strong>in</strong>g thoughts,<br />

<strong>in</strong>trusive thoughts, problems with th<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Feel<strong>in</strong>gs – mood changes, depression, anxiety, elation, paranoia, feel<strong>in</strong>g<br />

isolated and detached<br />

Behaviour – unusual behaviour, or loss of <strong>in</strong>terest and motivation;<br />

Perception – possible difficulties <strong>in</strong> understand<strong>in</strong>g and <strong>in</strong>terpret<strong>in</strong>g reality,<br />

e.g. beliefs that have no clear basis<br />

Personality – sense of self and identity, e.g. loss of identity<br />

Myths and misconceptions<br />

<strong>Psychosis</strong> is not…<br />

• About hav<strong>in</strong>g a split personality (i.e. Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde)<br />

• A condition that only affects certa<strong>in</strong> types of <strong>in</strong>dividuals. In theory,<br />

anyone – male or female, regardless of ethnicity – can develop<br />

psychosis<br />

• Always easy to spot. <strong>The</strong> early stages of psychosis are often confused<br />

with other difficulties that many young people experience as part of<br />

adolescence and grow<strong>in</strong>g up<br />

• Always l<strong>in</strong>ked to aggressive or violent behaviour<br />

One th<strong>in</strong>g that can make it particularly difficult to come to terms with hav<strong>in</strong>g<br />

psychosis is the stigma attached to mental health problems. Misunderstand<strong>in</strong>g<br />

can lead to fear and discrim<strong>in</strong>ation. It is not surpris<strong>in</strong>g that people who<br />

experience psychosis often feel they are “different” or “don’t fit <strong>in</strong>”, and that<br />

they are not valued or respected. This <strong>in</strong> turn can lead to social withdrawal<br />

and can become the most disabl<strong>in</strong>g feature of psychosis.<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Early</strong> <strong>Intervention</strong> Team can play a pivotal part <strong>in</strong> reduc<strong>in</strong>g stigma by<br />

educat<strong>in</strong>g clients, families and friends, <strong>in</strong> addition to schools, colleges and GP<br />

surgeries, about psychosis and about recovery.<br />

4


Symptoms may <strong>in</strong>clude…<br />

Delusions – strongly held beliefs that are unusual or bizarre <strong>in</strong> nature. Quite<br />

often beliefs are about be<strong>in</strong>g persecuted.<br />

Halluc<strong>in</strong>ations – unusual sensory perceptions <strong>in</strong> the absence of an external<br />

stimulus, e.g. hear<strong>in</strong>g voices when people are not around, see<strong>in</strong>g th<strong>in</strong>gs that<br />

are not there, hav<strong>in</strong>g disordered smell, touch or taste.<br />

Thought disorder – hav<strong>in</strong>g trouble l<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g thoughts together, thought<br />

broadcast<strong>in</strong>g (e.g. “people can hear my thoughts”), thought <strong>in</strong>sertion (e.g.<br />

“people are putt<strong>in</strong>g thoughts <strong>in</strong>to my head”), flight of ideas (e.g. jump<strong>in</strong>g<br />

from one topic to another).<br />

Disordered speech – speech may be rapid and <strong>in</strong>coherent. <strong>The</strong>re may be an<br />

<strong>in</strong>ability to make conversation.<br />

<strong>The</strong>se symptoms are referred to as positive symptoms, which are often<br />

present <strong>in</strong> the acute/active phase of psychosis.<br />

People experienc<strong>in</strong>g psychosis can also have negative symptoms which<br />

<strong>in</strong>clude the follow<strong>in</strong>g:-<br />

Social withdrawal – avoid<strong>in</strong>g family, friends and social gather<strong>in</strong>gs, stay<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong><br />

bed or isolat<strong>in</strong>g oneself<br />

Loss of motivation – lack of energy and drive to pursue activities, loss of the<br />

persons usual experiences or behaviour<br />

Loss of feel<strong>in</strong>gs for others – blunt<strong>in</strong>g of emotions and not feel<strong>in</strong>g anyth<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Depression – Low mood that affects an <strong>in</strong>dividual’s social function<strong>in</strong>g and/or<br />

activities of daily liv<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Loss of sense of pleasure – <strong>in</strong>ability to experience pleasure <strong>in</strong> people, events<br />

and objects<br />

Self-neglect – poor self care and dietary <strong>in</strong>take<br />

This list does not <strong>in</strong>clude everyth<strong>in</strong>g – people can also experience other<br />

strange or peculiar feel<strong>in</strong>gs that are not mentioned here.<br />

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Different forms of psychosis<br />

Drug-<strong>in</strong>duced psychosis – An episode of psychosis can be triggered by tak<strong>in</strong>g<br />

drugs (e.g. cannabis) or alcohol. <strong>The</strong>se symptoms may disappear as the<br />

substance wears off, but sometimes withdraw<strong>in</strong>g from drugs and alcohol can<br />

cause psychotic symptoms.<br />

Brief reactive psychosis – Psychotic symptoms may arise suddenly <strong>in</strong> response<br />

to a major stress <strong>in</strong> someone's life, such as a death <strong>in</strong> the family, a relationship<br />

break-up, start<strong>in</strong>g work or follow<strong>in</strong>g an important change of circumstances.<br />

Schizophrenia – This is the most common form of psychosis. ‘Schizophrenia’<br />

refers to an illness <strong>in</strong> which the changes of behaviour or symptoms have been<br />

present for a period of at least six months. Symptoms, severity and length of<br />

illness vary from person to person.<br />

Bipolar disorder – Also known as ‘manic depression’. This is a mood disorder<br />

characterized by extreme highs (mania) and lows (depression). Psychotic<br />

symptoms can appear as part of a more general disturbance <strong>in</strong> mood, but not<br />

everyone who has bipolar disorder experiences psychotic symptoms.<br />

Excitement and happ<strong>in</strong>ess can be associated with grandiose beliefs.<br />

Depression can be associated with hostile and critical auditory halluc<strong>in</strong>ations.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re are periods between these phases when someone is well and lead<strong>in</strong>g a<br />

productive, fill<strong>in</strong>g life. Some famous people such as Stephen Fry and Paul<br />

Merton have had this form of psychosis.<br />

Schizoaffective disorder – This diagnosis is made when the cl<strong>in</strong>ical picture is<br />

not 'typical' of either a mood disorder or schizophrenia, but the person has<br />

concurrent or consecutive symptoms of both illnesses.<br />

Psychotic depression – This is also a mood disorder, characterized by severe<br />

cl<strong>in</strong>ical depression with psychotic symptoms, but without periods of mania.<br />

Organic psychosis – Psychotic symptoms may appear to be due to a head <strong>in</strong>jury<br />

or a physical illness that disrupts the bra<strong>in</strong> function<strong>in</strong>g, such as encephalitis,<br />

AIDS or a tumour. <strong>The</strong>re are usually other symptoms present, such as memory<br />

problems or confusion. EIS is not suitable for people with psychotic symptoms<br />

which arise from bra<strong>in</strong> damage and organic bra<strong>in</strong> disorder, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g<br />

dementia.<br />

All of the above depend on the pattern of symptoms and difficulties<br />

experienced at that time. As symptoms may not rema<strong>in</strong> the same, a different<br />

diagnosis could be given at different stages. <strong>The</strong>refore, most health<br />

professionals prefer to th<strong>in</strong>k <strong>in</strong> terms of a range of psychotic symptoms.<br />

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<strong>The</strong> role of your care co-ord<strong>in</strong>ator<br />

Every client referred to the <strong>Early</strong> <strong>Intervention</strong> Team is allocated a Care Coord<strong>in</strong>ator.<br />

He or she will be a qualified mental health practitioner. Please ask<br />

to speak to her or him regard<strong>in</strong>g any questions you may have. A Care Coord<strong>in</strong>ator<br />

is there to meet regularly with clients and their families, to go<br />

through care plans and discuss treatment and care. He or she will also<br />

organise a care programme approach (CPA) meet<strong>in</strong>g where the care plan will<br />

be reviewed.<br />

Treatments<br />

Treatment for psychosis typically <strong>in</strong>volves both medication and other<br />

therapeutic elements.<br />

Medication<br />

<strong>The</strong> most common medication used to treat psychosis is a group of drugs<br />

called atypical anti-psychotics also called neuroleptics. It is not possible to<br />

know <strong>in</strong> advance which medication will suit or work best with someone and<br />

therefore many medication adjustments may be required. <strong>The</strong> frequency and<br />

quantity varies accord<strong>in</strong>g to the type of medication prescribed. Don’t be afraid<br />

to ask questions about medication.<br />

Anti-psychotic medication can be taken <strong>in</strong> one of two ways: by tablet or<br />

<strong>in</strong>jection. Both are designed to help reduce symptoms and prevent them from<br />

return<strong>in</strong>g. Injections are often better for people who don’t like tablets or who<br />

sometimes forget to take them – they give a slow release of medication and<br />

are sometimes called “depots”. Anti-psychotic medication is designed to help<br />

people with psychosis <strong>in</strong> two ways: to reduce psychotic symptoms and to<br />

prevent those symptoms return<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

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Types of medication - tablet form (British National Formulary 2001):<br />

NB: <strong>The</strong> figures given are accord<strong>in</strong>g to ‘therapeutic range’ – doses will vary<br />

depend<strong>in</strong>g on the <strong>in</strong>dividual.<br />

Generic Name Commercial Name Dose<br />

Amisulpride (Solian) 400-800mg<br />

Clozap<strong>in</strong>e (Clozaril) 200-900mg<br />

Haloperidol (Serence) 1.5-30mg<br />

Olanzap<strong>in</strong>e (Zyprexa) 5-20mg<br />

Quetiap<strong>in</strong>e (Seroquel) 300-750mg<br />

Risperidone (Risperidal) 2-8mg<br />

Aripiprazole (Abilify) 5-30mg<br />

Injection form:<br />

Generic Name<br />

Fluphenaz<strong>in</strong>e Decanoate<br />

Flupenthixol Decanoate<br />

Risperidone<br />

Commercial<br />

(Modecate)<br />

(Depixol)<br />

(Risperdal Consta)<br />

Possible side effects of medication:<br />

Common side effects <strong>in</strong>clude dry mouth, nausea, drows<strong>in</strong>ess, stiffness, or<br />

restlessness. <strong>The</strong> newer generation of medications are generally much better<br />

tolerated. However, if side effects are noticed it is important to <strong>in</strong>form your<br />

care co-ord<strong>in</strong>ator or doctor. Some people will get side effects with one<br />

medication or dose but not with another. Work<strong>in</strong>g out which medication<br />

and dose suits you is someth<strong>in</strong>g that can be achieved between you and<br />

your doctor.<br />

Frequency of tak<strong>in</strong>g medication<br />

Medication taken <strong>in</strong> tablet form is usually taken daily. How many times a day<br />

will depend on the drug prescribed and the recommended dosage. Different<br />

anti psychotics are associated with different dosages and different doses suit<br />

different people. Dosages are also often determ<strong>in</strong>ed by the type and number<br />

of symptoms a person has and how much distress they are caus<strong>in</strong>g. This is<br />

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often related to the stage of the psychosis. When psychotic symptoms are at<br />

their strongest and most severe (often referred to as the acute stage) higher<br />

quantities of the drug are needed to br<strong>in</strong>g the symptoms under control.<br />

However, when someone is <strong>in</strong> the recovery stage and symptoms are not as<br />

distress<strong>in</strong>g or have gone altogether the dosage can be lowered.<br />

Medication given <strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong>jection form is usually adm<strong>in</strong>istered by a nurse. Aga<strong>in</strong>,<br />

the frequency of <strong>in</strong>jections depends on the <strong>in</strong>dividual and varies from person<br />

to person. Some people have one <strong>in</strong>jection once a week but some people<br />

have an <strong>in</strong>jection every two weeks or once a month.<br />

<strong>The</strong> length of time tak<strong>in</strong>g medication<br />

This also varies from <strong>in</strong>dividual to <strong>in</strong>dividual and how long symptoms persist. It<br />

is recommended that after a first episode of psychosis anti psychotic<br />

medication should be taken for two years. However, this can <strong>in</strong>crease to five<br />

years <strong>in</strong> the event of relapse.<br />

Other treatments<br />

Individual psychological treatments<br />

Cognitive Behavioural <strong>The</strong>rapy (CBT) has been proven to be effective <strong>in</strong><br />

reduc<strong>in</strong>g positive symptoms and distress. CBT looks at the relationship<br />

between thoughts, feel<strong>in</strong>gs and behaviour, and provides people with<br />

strategies to manage their symptoms and make sense of their experiences.<br />

Some other therapy approaches (e.g., Solution-Focused) may also be useful <strong>in</strong><br />

some cases.<br />

Family <strong>Intervention</strong>s<br />

Behavioural Family <strong>The</strong>rapy (BFT) <strong>in</strong>volves members of a family, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g the<br />

client, be<strong>in</strong>g seen together for approximately 10 sessions. It primarily aims to<br />

reduce stress, assist <strong>in</strong> solv<strong>in</strong>g current problems and to help understand one<br />

another. Another approach that some families f<strong>in</strong>d helpful is Systemic<br />

<strong>The</strong>rapy.<br />

9


Occupational therapy (OT)<br />

Occupational <strong>The</strong>rapy is used to help with activities of daily liv<strong>in</strong>g such as<br />

shopp<strong>in</strong>g, cook<strong>in</strong>g, or learn<strong>in</strong>g new skills to assist <strong>in</strong> work<strong>in</strong>g towards paid<br />

employment or voluntary work.<br />

Group therapy<br />

Groups can be particularly helpful to counter the sense of aloneness that many<br />

clients feel. EIS offers a range of groups, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g: Activity-Focused Groups<br />

(e.g., the walk<strong>in</strong>g group; the sport<strong>in</strong>g recovery group); Support Groups (e.g.,<br />

the Clients’ Support Group, or the Carers’ Group), and Social Groups.<br />

Complementary therapies<br />

Art, drama, music, meditation, relaxation, sport<strong>in</strong>g activity and exercise,<br />

acupuncture, aromatherapy and reflexology can all help to reduce anxiety and<br />

stress and improve physical well be<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

Dr<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g alcohol and tak<strong>in</strong>g drugs when prescribed antipsychotic<br />

medication<br />

Alcohol<br />

Alcohol comb<strong>in</strong>ed with anti-psychotic medication can <strong>in</strong>crease levels of<br />

sedation or drows<strong>in</strong>ess. Moderate use of alcohol doesn’t seem to trigger<br />

psychotic symptoms. Try to dr<strong>in</strong>k no more than the healthy daily alcohol limit:-<br />

Men – 4 units<br />

Women – 2 or 3 units<br />

One unit = ½ p<strong>in</strong>t of lager, 1 small glass of w<strong>in</strong>e, 1 shot of spirits<br />

It is advised that you seek advice before driv<strong>in</strong>g on anti-psychotic medication.<br />

ALWAYS AVOID BINGE DRINKING<br />

Medication bought over the counter<br />

It is generally safe to take pa<strong>in</strong>killers, paracetamol, aspir<strong>in</strong> etc…when tak<strong>in</strong>g<br />

anti-psychotic medication but please consult your doctor or care co-ord<strong>in</strong>ator.<br />

10


Illegal street drugs<br />

Cannabis, ecstasy and LSD can <strong>in</strong>crease the symptoms of psychosis and can<br />

also counteract the benefits of anti-psychotic medication.<br />

Always speak to your doctor, care co-ord<strong>in</strong>ator or chemist about all the drugs<br />

you are tak<strong>in</strong>g to be sure.<br />

Large amounts of nicot<strong>in</strong>e and /or coffee can also trigger symptoms of<br />

psychosis.<br />

Recovery from psychosis<br />

Recovery means different th<strong>in</strong>gs to different people. It is not always about the<br />

complete disappearance of mental distress and symptoms. For some, it means<br />

learn<strong>in</strong>g to cope with difficulties, ga<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g control over ones life, achiev<strong>in</strong>g<br />

goals, develop<strong>in</strong>g skills and fulfill<strong>in</strong>g dreams.<br />

Recovery from the first episode usually takes a number of months. People<br />

with psychosis do recover, though if symptoms rema<strong>in</strong> or return, the recovery<br />

process may be prolonged. <strong>The</strong>y can learn to manage their symptoms and live<br />

<strong>in</strong>dependent, fulfilled lives <strong>in</strong> the community. <strong>The</strong> availability of family support<br />

and other support systems tend to be crucial for recovery.<br />

Recovery statistics<br />

With susta<strong>in</strong>ed treatment, over 80% of <strong>in</strong>dividuals achieve remission of<br />

symptoms from their 1st episode of psychosis with<strong>in</strong> six months. A m<strong>in</strong>ority,<br />

about 10%, need high levels of support and help for many years. Attention to<br />

early relapse prevention is vital as two-thirds of people will relapse with<strong>in</strong><br />

three years of first presentation, which can set a cycle of repeated relapse.<br />

However, between relapses they will rema<strong>in</strong> well and live a perfectly normal<br />

life. Comprehensive programmes to detect and treat early psychosis and to<br />

support young people with early psychosis promote recovery and<br />

<strong>in</strong>dependence and encourage uptake of social, educational and employment<br />

opportunities. Two years after diagnosis 90% of <strong>in</strong>dividuals report satisfaction<br />

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with their employment, educational and social atta<strong>in</strong>ments, and less than 25%<br />

of days out of role are taken <strong>in</strong> the two years post diagnosis. <strong>The</strong> earlier<br />

psychosis is recognised, assessed and treated, the better the outlook!<br />

Stay<strong>in</strong>g well – learn<strong>in</strong>g to recognise signs of relapse<br />

Research suggests that relapse is common and more likely <strong>in</strong> the early years<br />

after a first episode, with one <strong>in</strong> two people hav<strong>in</strong>g a relapse with<strong>in</strong> two years.<br />

<strong>The</strong>refore it is important to be aware of the early warn<strong>in</strong>g signs that are often<br />

present before symptoms of psychosis emerge. <strong>The</strong>se signs may occur days or<br />

sometimes weeks before a psychotic episode. Be<strong>in</strong>g aware of early warn<strong>in</strong>g<br />

signs can help prevent relapse and can help you feel <strong>in</strong> control of your illness<br />

as opposed to the illness controll<strong>in</strong>g you!<br />

<strong>Early</strong> warn<strong>in</strong>g signs are usually <strong>in</strong>dividual to the person but there are often<br />

similarities. Some typical early warn<strong>in</strong>g signs <strong>in</strong>clude:<br />

• Feel<strong>in</strong>g more tense, afraid and anxious<br />

• Rac<strong>in</strong>g or jumbled thoughts<br />

• Restlessness, feel<strong>in</strong>g irritable<br />

• Feel<strong>in</strong>g confused<br />

• Poor appetite, weight loss<br />

• Memory difficulties and trouble concentrat<strong>in</strong>g<br />

• Sleep difficulties<br />

• Self neglect<br />

Your parents and your care co-ord<strong>in</strong>ator or another professional can help you<br />

identify your early warn<strong>in</strong>g signs. <strong>The</strong>y will help you complete a relapse<br />

prevention plan, by look<strong>in</strong>g back at your last episode and try<strong>in</strong>g to recall what<br />

the early signs were then.<br />

If you feel you may be relaps<strong>in</strong>g or experienc<strong>in</strong>g unusual experiences similar to<br />

your last episode try not to panic but don’t ignore them. Always talk to<br />

someone you can trust about it and tell your care co-ord<strong>in</strong>ator or someone<br />

from the team. Refer to your relapse plan and try to do what it suggests.<br />

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A relapse prevention plan<br />

A relapse prevention plan is designed to establish how someone’s symptoms<br />

may build up over time. It identifies early warn<strong>in</strong>g signs and possible triggers<br />

to stress and also records important telephone numbers of people <strong>in</strong>volved <strong>in</strong><br />

your care (see example on page 15). <strong>The</strong> EIS team recommend that all clients<br />

have a plan to help them and their family/friends recognise signs of<br />

deterioration <strong>in</strong> mental health as it allows for some control over relapses and<br />

hopefully prevent them from happen<strong>in</strong>g. Furthermore, mak<strong>in</strong>g use of a<br />

relapse plan can often make relapses shorter and less disruptive. Be<strong>in</strong>g aware<br />

of symptoms and how to manage them is fundamental to the recovery<br />

process. If a relapse does occur it is important to stay positive and not to panic<br />

or th<strong>in</strong>k you are fail<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

As with all aspects of psychosis and recovery, a relapse plan is <strong>in</strong>dividual and<br />

unique to the person however it may be helpful to th<strong>in</strong>k about some typical<br />

early warn<strong>in</strong>g signs (i.e. feel<strong>in</strong>g more tense or anxious, restlessness, low <strong>in</strong><br />

mood, confused and withdrawn) and triggers of psychosis (i.e. Exams,<br />

work<strong>in</strong>g long hours, arguments with family or friends).<br />

A relapse plan may <strong>in</strong>clude a comb<strong>in</strong>ation of psychological and practical<br />

cop<strong>in</strong>g strategies as well as medical treatments. It will usually be completed as<br />

part of a care plan with your care co-ord<strong>in</strong>ator or another mental health<br />

professional. Some people f<strong>in</strong>d it helpful to have their relapse plan written on<br />

small cards to keep <strong>in</strong> their purse or wallet so they can refer to them at any<br />

time.<br />

What helps<br />

• Tak<strong>in</strong>g anti-psychotic medication on a regular basis if prescribed<br />

• Talk<strong>in</strong>g to people you trust about your worries<br />

• Be realistic! Goals should be reasonable and achievable<br />

• Support from family and friends<br />

• Participat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> daily activities you enjoy<br />

• Some structure and rout<strong>in</strong>e to your day<br />

13


• Keep<strong>in</strong>g physically well. Recovery from psychosis is aided by a wellbalanced<br />

diet, adequate sleep and regular exercise<br />

• Hobbies and recreational activities that you enjoy and look forward to<br />

• Talk<strong>in</strong>g to others that have experienced psychosis (attend<strong>in</strong>g a support<br />

group may be helpful)<br />

• Try to give yourself time and space when you need it (“me time”)<br />

• Education about psychosis, try<strong>in</strong>g to understand your symptoms<br />

What doesn’t help<br />

• Keep<strong>in</strong>g th<strong>in</strong>gs to yourself and not talk<strong>in</strong>g about the th<strong>in</strong>gs that are<br />

troubl<strong>in</strong>g you<br />

• Avoid<strong>in</strong>g contact with others/isolat<strong>in</strong>g yourself<br />

• Excess alcohol consumption<br />

• Use of recreational drugs (i.e. cannabis, speed, LSD, coca<strong>in</strong>e)<br />

• Tak<strong>in</strong>g too much on/too much stress<br />

• Negative th<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g<br />

An example of a relapse plan<br />

<strong>Early</strong> warn<strong>in</strong>g signs<br />

Th<strong>in</strong>k about changes <strong>in</strong> thoughts feel<strong>in</strong>gs and behaviour<br />

• Disturbed sleep pattern<br />

• Loss of motivation, feel<strong>in</strong>g depressed<br />

• Self-imposed isolation<br />

• Poor concentration<br />

• Self-neglect<br />

14


Triggers<br />

Th<strong>in</strong>k about your past experiences of becom<strong>in</strong>g unwell and th<strong>in</strong>gs that make<br />

you feel more stressed<br />

• Exams<br />

• Arguments with family and/or friends<br />

• Use/<strong>in</strong>creased use of alcohol/street drugs/prescribed medication<br />

• Pressure at work<br />

Th<strong>in</strong>gs that help when I feel stressed<br />

• Relaxation (hav<strong>in</strong>g a bath)<br />

• Talk<strong>in</strong>g to friends/family<br />

• Exercise/sports activities<br />

• Listen<strong>in</strong>g to music/watch<strong>in</strong>g a DVD<br />

Relapse drill<br />

Whenever I experience any of the early warn<strong>in</strong>g signs I will respond by:<br />

• Stay<strong>in</strong>g calm<br />

• Mak<strong>in</strong>g contact with my Care Co-ord<strong>in</strong>ator/EIS team/GP<br />

• Speak<strong>in</strong>g to a family member/friend<br />

• Mak<strong>in</strong>g an appo<strong>in</strong>tment for a medication review<br />

IMPORTANT CONTACT INFORMATION<br />

Care co-ord<strong>in</strong>ator:_________________________________________________<br />

Tel: _____________________________________________________________<br />

EIS 01634 854547<br />

GP: _____________________________________________________________<br />

Tel: _____________________________________________________________<br />

In the event of an emergency please contact your local accident and<br />

emergency department.<br />

15


Build<strong>in</strong>g confidence after a first episode of psychosis<br />

It is quite common that someone will lose confidence follow<strong>in</strong>g a first episode<br />

of psychosis. Understandably some people will feel uncerta<strong>in</strong> about the future<br />

and worry that the psychotic symptoms will return. Similarly, some people may<br />

avoid socialis<strong>in</strong>g or go<strong>in</strong>g out and will f<strong>in</strong>d it difficult to motivate themselves to<br />

go to work or school. With time and support from family, friends and<br />

professionals, feel<strong>in</strong>gs of anxiety and hopelessness will disappear. However, if<br />

these feel<strong>in</strong>gs become more <strong>in</strong>tense it is important that the person seeks<br />

professional help where they can and learn some cop<strong>in</strong>g techniques to cope<br />

with these feel<strong>in</strong>gs.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re are a number of th<strong>in</strong>gs that may help <strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>g confidence. For<br />

example, talk<strong>in</strong>g to someone you trust about your feel<strong>in</strong>gs if you can. It helps<br />

to set goals but realistic goals, don’t try to run before you can walk! Try to do<br />

th<strong>in</strong>gs that mix pleasure with a sense of achievement (i.e. don’t just watch<br />

television – tidy up, go to the gym, and then watch television). It often takes a<br />

while to feel yourself aga<strong>in</strong>, so give it time.<br />

Some personal experiences<br />

From a parent’s po<strong>in</strong>t of view the knowledge that your child has a mental illness is one<br />

of the most frighten<strong>in</strong>g experiences my husband and I have experienced. So different<br />

from any physical illness that once diagnosed you know how to deal with, and roughly<br />

how long that illness would last. Adam experienced his first episode of psychosis 6<br />

months ago and we were lucky enough to be referred to the Beacon and the EIS team.<br />

<strong>The</strong> help and support we have received as a family has been a life saver. <strong>The</strong>re is always<br />

someone at the end of a phone, the regular visits from EIS, however many times a week<br />

is necessary, and weekly family meet<strong>in</strong>gs have been <strong>in</strong>valuable. We started attend<strong>in</strong>g<br />

the meet<strong>in</strong>gs of the Carers’ Support Group <strong>in</strong> Dover <strong>in</strong> July. We have found this to be a<br />

great way to share experiences with other parents and to talk freely with people who<br />

really understand, as well as ga<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g knowledge of the illness from visit<strong>in</strong>g speakers,<br />

cover<strong>in</strong>g a variety of areas that were really <strong>in</strong>terest<strong>in</strong>g. We would just like to say,<br />

therefore, a really special thanks to all the staff at EIS and Reth<strong>in</strong>k Carers’ Support<br />

Group for show<strong>in</strong>g us there really is a light at the end of the tunnel.<br />

Susie and Jim<br />

16


Hi, my name is Elizabeth. At the age of 14 I experienced an acute psychotic<br />

illness. One day I went to school and everyth<strong>in</strong>g was different. I thought my<br />

parents had committed suicide and that my teacher was my father. I was<br />

suffer<strong>in</strong>g with paranoia and severe anxiety; my behaviour was completely out of<br />

character. When some teachers noticed this, they contacted my parents and<br />

they came to school and took me to our GP. I had very confused thoughts and<br />

the GP referred me straight away to the hospital where I had many tests<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g an MRI scan, which looked at my bra<strong>in</strong> to see if there was someth<strong>in</strong>g<br />

wrong, but there wasn’t. After 6 days <strong>in</strong> the William Harvey hospital, I was<br />

transferred to Ticehurst, a mental health hospital. Although it took many months<br />

for me to recover, I am now well, happy and back at school sitt<strong>in</strong>g mock exams<br />

<strong>in</strong> preparation for GCSE’s.<br />

My daughter is 20 years old and has been receiv<strong>in</strong>g help and support from EIS for 15<br />

months. She has been one of the lucky ones and has not been hospitalized at all.<br />

I strongly believe the support and care of the EIS that has been given has made it not<br />

only possible for her to get professional help and support at home, but also the support<br />

given to me, as a parent, has been a big part of my daughters recovery.<br />

I knew noth<strong>in</strong>g about psychosis before my daughter’s illness, I just knew I needed help.<br />

<strong>The</strong> EIS team gave me support, strength and reassurance and <strong>in</strong>formation. It didn’t<br />

matter if my question was one that others had asked loads of times before. We<br />

mattered, they cared, they answered and helped me and my daughter.<br />

<strong>The</strong> support given at the early stages was brilliant, they came to my house most days<br />

this would give me some time out, do shopp<strong>in</strong>g, have a bath, go for a walk. I didn’t<br />

know these people but they do their jobs so well and the reassurance they give a carer<br />

is worth all the money they can get.<br />

I’ve seen my daughter go from this stranger that did the weirdest of th<strong>in</strong>gs and saw<br />

dead people and heard voices to someone who understands what’s happened. Someone<br />

who is happy to talk to the EIS about her illness, problems and difficulties she is<br />

fac<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

For me the relationships built up over this 15 months have given me the strength to<br />

support my daughter and to cont<strong>in</strong>ue my career.<br />

Yes it has been hard, but not be<strong>in</strong>g on your own with this th<strong>in</strong>g called psychosis<br />

really makes it easier on all the family. Dawn<br />

17


Hello, my name is Joe and I experienced a psychotic episode a year ago when I<br />

was 19, although at the time I did not realise what was happen<strong>in</strong>g to me. I<br />

recall go<strong>in</strong>g out a lot, not sleep<strong>in</strong>g much and not eat<strong>in</strong>g properly. I also<br />

remember feel<strong>in</strong>g quite paranoid and worried about people know<strong>in</strong>g who I was. I<br />

started lock<strong>in</strong>g the doors at home, I felt people were out to kill me and<br />

conspir<strong>in</strong>g aga<strong>in</strong>st me. I know I was very scared and did not want to be seen<br />

by anyone. My parents became <strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>gly concerned about my bizarre<br />

behaviour and took me to the local hospital. At this time I had become<br />

extremely anxious and remember walk<strong>in</strong>g around clutch<strong>in</strong>g my heart to protect<br />

myself. In the hospital I had a series of tests and physical exam<strong>in</strong>ations<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g a CT scan. I started to halluc<strong>in</strong>ate and thought the television and the<br />

radio were talk<strong>in</strong>g to me.<br />

I stayed <strong>in</strong> hospital for about three weeks, dur<strong>in</strong>g which time I met some<br />

people who talked to me and supported me. <strong>The</strong> ward staff were very good too<br />

and used distraction strategies to help me feel better. <strong>The</strong> creative therapy class<br />

was really useful. I was then <strong>in</strong>troduced to the <strong>Early</strong> <strong>Intervention</strong> Team and<br />

my Care Co-ord<strong>in</strong>ator, who came out to see me at home with my family and<br />

expla<strong>in</strong>ed my symptoms <strong>in</strong> terms of a psychotic episode. She also assisted me<br />

and my family <strong>in</strong> putt<strong>in</strong>g together a relapse prevention plan. I now know what<br />

signs to look for to help prevent a recurrence which puts me and especially my<br />

mum at ease. Without their help and the support from my family I probably<br />

wouldn’t be where I am today.<br />

Now I have returned to college and I am <strong>in</strong> my f<strong>in</strong>al year of a music<br />

technology Diploma. I have a part time job where I have made some new<br />

friends and I am sav<strong>in</strong>g up for a new guitar. I also enjoy socialis<strong>in</strong>g, play<strong>in</strong>g<br />

badm<strong>in</strong>ton and snooker. I still take anti psychotic medication but it is now a<br />

m<strong>in</strong>imal dose. I have become quite discipl<strong>in</strong>ed and ensure that I eat healthy and<br />

take regular exercise. I th<strong>in</strong>k my experience has made me appreciate how<br />

precious life is. It was a very frighten<strong>in</strong>g experience for me, but also for<br />

everyone close to me. Overall, I have come to realise that no matter how bad<br />

th<strong>in</strong>gs are there is always light at the end of the tunnel!!<br />

Patient Advice and Liaison <strong>Service</strong> (PALS)<br />

You may have some concern about your care and treatment, but feel unable<br />

to speak to our staff provid<strong>in</strong>g your care. You may just want some<br />

<strong>in</strong>formation about local health services. You can contact the confidential<br />

Patient Advice and Liaison <strong>Service</strong> (PALS). <strong>The</strong> PALS Team is available to help<br />

you with any health difficulties you may have. <strong>The</strong> PALS Team can be<br />

contacted by call<strong>in</strong>g free: 0800 587 6757 (west <strong>Kent</strong> and <strong>Medway</strong>),<br />

or 0800 783 9972 (east <strong>Kent</strong>). You can also e-mail: pals@kmpt.nhs.uk<br />

18


Comments on this leaflet<br />

If you wish to comment on this leaflet call 01732 520441 or<br />

e-mail communications@kmpt.nhs.uk<br />

If you want to ask questions about<br />

anyth<strong>in</strong>g to do with your care or the<br />

Trust, please ask a member of staff.<br />

If you wish to make a compla<strong>in</strong>t or pay a<br />

compliment about the service you have<br />

received, a leaflet is available to guide<br />

you through the process. Please ask<br />

a member of staff for a copy<br />

KMPT.PI.leaf195 issued October 2012<br />

For more <strong>in</strong>formation you can contact:<br />

Trust Headquarters, 35 K<strong>in</strong>gshill Avenue,<br />

K<strong>in</strong>gshill, <strong>West</strong> Mall<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>Kent</strong> ME19 4AX<br />

Tel: 01732 520400<br />

19<br />

<strong>Kent</strong> & <strong>Medway</strong> NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust<br />

19


l<br />

l<br />

l<br />

l<br />

l<br />

l<br />

<strong>Early</strong> detection<br />

Treatment started rapidly<br />

Short duration of untreated<br />

psychosis<br />

Cont<strong>in</strong>ue Treatment<br />

Optimal treatment: medication,<br />

<strong>in</strong>dividual counsell<strong>in</strong>g, family<br />

support, psychosocial treatment,<br />

<strong>in</strong>formation<br />

Supportive social network<br />

l<br />

l<br />

l<br />

l<br />

l<br />

l<br />

l<br />

l<br />

Stable liv<strong>in</strong>g environment<br />

Structure and calm<br />

Mean<strong>in</strong>gful occupations: study,<br />

work, hobby<br />

Someone to share experiences<br />

and feel<strong>in</strong>gs with<br />

Good physical health<br />

Rapid disappearance of symptoms<br />

Last<strong>in</strong>g absence of symptoms<br />

Realistic expectations and hope for<br />

the future<br />

Acknowledgements<br />

This booklet owes a great deal to Birm<strong>in</strong>gham <strong>Early</strong> <strong>Intervention</strong> <strong>Service</strong>’s<br />

Gett<strong>in</strong>g Back on Your Feet, and we are grateful to Max Birchwood,<br />

Chris Jackson, Beth Read<strong>in</strong>g and Jo Smith for their permission to draw<br />

on their work. Any mistakes, of course, are our own.<br />

<strong>West</strong> <strong>Kent</strong> & <strong>Medway</strong> <strong>Early</strong> <strong>Intervention</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Psychosis</strong> <strong>Service</strong><br />

Canada House<br />

Barnsole Road<br />

Gill<strong>in</strong>gham<br />

<strong>Kent</strong><br />

ME7 4JL<br />

Tel: 01634 854547<br />

www.kmpt.nhs.uk/eis<br />

20<br />

<strong>Kent</strong> & <strong>Medway</strong> NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust

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