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Getting help with psychosis

Therapy groupThe treatment for a psychotic disorder aims to bring back your normal feeling of reality, so that you can manage your daily life again. It's usually started by a specialist mental health service, though you may get ongoing care from your GP team.

Medications

Many people with psychosis need to take antipsychotic medication to feel better.

Some people will need to keep taking it after they have improved to stay well.

The type of medication and how long you need to take it varies with each individual and their particular type of psychosis.

Talking Minds has a detailed section that explains the need for medications, how they work, and addresses any concerns you may have about taking them. You can find out more about the particular medicines you are taking in Medications for mental health issues.

Talk therapies

Talking therapies have an important role in treating psychosis and the effects it can have on your life.

A psychologist or counsellor can provide talking therapy and emotional support.

Your GP or specialist mental health team can help you find a therapist or refer you for some free counselling. You can find counsellors, therapists and psychiatrists in the Family Services Directory. Some therapy options will cost but your GP can talk through the approximate cost with you.

Specialist therapists

You may be referred to a specialist mental health team to get help with psychosis.

West Coast DHB Specialist Mental Health Service

This is the major supplier of mental health services on the West Coast. You can find out more about the service on this page.

Family members and friends can contact the Mental Health Service directly if they are worried about the safety and health of someone who may be having a psychotic episode.

Community support groups

Cornerstone Family Support offers education, information, advocacy, workshops, support groups, face to face / telephone support, for families of people with psychotic disorders.

  HealthInfo recommends the following pages

On the next page: Supporting someone with psychosis

Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Page created December 2020. Last updated May 2021.

Page reference: 878974

Review key: HIPSY-124133