Psychosis Treatment Plan

What is psychosis?

Psychosis refers to symptoms that disrupt an individual’s connection with reality, often making it difficult to distinguish real from unreal experiences. Psychotic episodes typically involve delusions, which are false beliefs such as thinking others are trying to harm them, and hallucinations, where individuals see or hear things others do not. These symptoms often develop in young adulthood but can occur at any age, sometimes indicating other mental health conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression.

Psychosis may result from genetic risks, brain development issues, trauma, or stress, but sleep deprivation, prescription medications, substance use, or alcohol misuse can also trigger it. Importantly, psychosis does not always indicate a separate mental illness. Early warning signs include aspects of psychotic disorders such as paranoia, social withdrawal, disrupted sleep, or difficulty distinguishing reality from fantasy.

Untreated psychosis can lead to serious mental illness complications, including job loss, academic struggles, financial difficulties, substance abuse, social isolation, relationship strain, and worsening physical and mental health. Early intervention, a thorough assessment, and treatment such as antipsychotic medication, therapy, and support groups are vital for managing symptoms, improving mental health, and reducing the risk of future psychotic episodes.

How is psychosis treated?

Psychosis treatment is usually administered by qualified professionals, including a psychologist, psychiatrist, or social worker who works to help develop a treatment plan. Antipsychotic medications used to treat schizophrenia and psychosis symptoms can be used as part of treatment and often have side effects. Working with a healthcare provider to determine the right medication to support the client is essential. Treatment usually includes a mix of various treatments, both medication management and therapy sessions. Therapy approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can support individuals experiencing psychosis (National Institute of Mental Health, n.d.).

How does this Psychosis Treatment Plan work?

This Psychosis Treatment Plan is designed to streamline your workflow and improve care outcomes for clients experiencing psychosis. Follow these step-by-step instructions to use the template effectively:

Step 1: Access the template

Get a copy of the Psychosis Treatment Plan by clicking the "Use Template" button to open a fillable version in the Carepatron app. You can also click "Download" for a ready-to-print version that you can fill out digitally or by hand.

Step 2: Collaborate with your client

Discuss your client’s presenting issues, psychiatric and medical history, and family background. Explain the purpose of the treatment plan and how it will be used during their care. Use this opportunity to build rapport and gain their input, helping them feel engaged and supported in their treatment journey.

Step 3: Fill out the template

Work through the template’s sections during your session. Address their presenting issues, treatment goals, and current or planned medications. Encourage your client to share their perspective on treatment, allowing for a personalized plan.

Step 4: Store securely and update as needed

After completing the template, securely store it using Carepatron’s system, ensuring privacy and easy access for future updates. Revisit the document regularly to track progress, record milestones, and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.

What are the benefits of having a Psychosis Treatment Plan?

Having a Psychosis Treatment Plan in place for patients who are struggling is an essential resource for therapists working within this space. Developing a plan collaboratively can support building rapport and allowing the patient to feel heard. Here are a few other benefits that utilizing a treatment plan for people experiencing psychosis can have:

Goal setting

Goal setting is an integral part of any Mental Health Treatment Plan. In the case of psychosis treatment goals, it's good to understand how long an individual and you, as their therapist, want to spend on each part of the treatment. A  treatment plan can help patients and therapists make informed and realistic goals to achieve the desired outcome.

Individualized care

This treatment plan allows goals and desired outcomes to be individualized for each patient. This template can help you tailor an approach that considers the resources available to your patient. Involving the patient in their recovery process also helps them feel supported.

Family involvement

If appropriate treatment for psychosis allows, individuals can utilize their social support circle within this treatment plan. Sections for family background and presenting issues will enable the person experiencing psychosis to go into detail about family involvement in their symptoms as well as any background on family mental health conditions. Keeping up with family support and indicators can allow for a smooth recovery plan.

Collaboration with other mental health professionals

This template allows other mental health professionals to quickly and easily understand key information about this client. The patient can also use this to help describe their symptoms and what they need to do to remain calm. Other professionals who might be involved in the treatment may be psychiatrists, counselors, case managers, or social workers.

Reference

National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Understanding psychosis. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/understanding-psychosis