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Self-care with psychosis

Having psychosis can seem like a big challenge, but there are ways you can reduce its impact on your life. Trying some of the options below can make things more manageable, which in turn will help you feel more in control. This can help make other treatments more successful.

Things you can try:

Learning more about what is happening to you. Talking Minds is a New Zealand website with detailed information about psychosis and how to get help.
Reaching out to trusted family/whānau and friends to support you and assist you in getting the help you need.
Talking to your GP or practice nurse about your symptoms and how you are feeling.
Asking your GP or psychiatric team to write you a care plan. This can include information about what kind of treatment works for you, and who to contact if your symptoms get worse or if you are in a crisis.
Avoiding things that set off your symptoms. Over time you will learn what these things are. They can be particular people or environments, or other things that make you feel stressed.
Avoid recreational drugs and alcohol.
Trying to keep a regular sleep pattern by going to bed and getting up at the same time every day.
Looking after your physical health by eating well, quitting smoking, and keeping active. Having regular physical health checks and keeping your body healthy can help to reduce how often you get symptoms, and how bad they are when you get them.
Considering a support group.
Learning about antipsychotic medicines. You may need to start taking one of these medicines. If you are taking an antipsychotic medicine do not stop it or reduce the dose unless your doctor tells you to. If you do stop the medicine, your psychotic symptoms might come back. You can find out more about the particular medicines you are taking in Medications for mental health issues.
Learning about talking therapy. This will help you to:
- understand what triggers your symptoms and how to reduce them
- recover from a psychotic episode
- learn when to get help.
Therapy can also reduce stress and worry for your family.

Phone lines

If you feel the need to talk to someone there are phone lines with trained counsellors available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

1737, need to talk?

Phone: 1737 or 0800-1737-1737

Txt: 1737

Website: 1737.org.nz

Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 1737 is staffed by trained counsellors who can talk you through your problems and suggest help in your area.