1. Understanding Psychotic Symptoms

Psychosis Definition: Includes hallucinations (seeing/hearing things not present) and delusions (firmly held false beliefs).

Associated Disorders: Present in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression, and more.

2. Common Triggers and Causes of Psychotic Episodes

Stress: A major factor that can trigger or exacerbate symptoms.

Medication Compliance: Non-adherence or imbalance can lead to breakthrough symptoms.

Physical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, sleep deprivation, and traumatic brain injuries may contribute to psychosis.

3. Strategies to Support Someone with Psychosis

Create a Safe Environment: Focus on safety and security rather than challenging their reality.

Reduce Stress: Identify and mitigate stressors (emotional, physical, or environmental).

Develop an Emergency Plan: Be prepared with a relapse or prodromal symptom plan.

4. Managing Symptoms in Acute Episodes

Join Their Reality: Instead of arguing, acknowledge their experience and work on creating a sense of safety.

Behavioral Observations: Examine behavior as a form of communication to understand underlying needs.

5. Long-Term Interventions

CBT for Psychosis (CBTp): Effective in residual symptoms or remission but not during acute episodes.

Motivation and Scaffolding: Help individuals develop motivation for self-care tasks using step-by-step guidance and rewards.