It is not unusual for a person to become psychotic in such a way that it goes undetected or unrecognized for weeks, months, or even longer. The length of these unnecessary delays can vary, but researchers at the University of British Columbia estimate that, in many cases, a year or more passes between the first appearance of psychotic symptoms and the start of proper treatment. Other estimates place the delay at up to seven or even nine years on average.

Better Outcomes

Long delays between the appearance of psychotic thoughts and the initiation of therapy may make it more difficult to overcome disease symptoms. When signs of schizophrenia are spotted early and treatment is sought sooner, patients start therapy with fewer and less severe symptoms than if psychosis is allowed to run untreated. Researchers have also found that patients who received treatment with less delay had a better response.

Fast treatment can also help preserve self-confidence and self-esteem. This, in turn, can improve a patient's ability to function successfully in school, at work, and as part of a family or other social group. It may decrease the severity of depression that often strikes patients as they face the realization that they must struggle with a mental illness as serious as schizophrenia.

Treating Initial Psychotic Episodes

Young people experiencing their first psychotic episode can be very sensitive to the effects of antipsychotic drugs. Although the use of these medications can help suppress delusions and minimize their destructive impact on a person's life and thoughts, it is a good idea to ease into their use if they are required. Low doses given over longer time periods can minimize side effects. It may take up to a few weeks for the patient to respond, but if her symptoms were caught early, they may be controlled effectively by the medications.

Explanations and Therapy

The emergence of mental illness is confusing and upsetting for the patient and her family. Following a psychotic episode, a person may feel confused and demoralized, and lack a sense of worth and confidence. You can help by explaining to her that, like millions of other people, she has been ill but is receiving treatment and will improve. Without lecturing, make it clear that illness is not something to be ashamed of.

To help establish rapport with a person being treated for schizophrenia, assure her that, as with her doctor, her conversations with you will be confidential. Tell her you will not discuss anything she confides to you with anyone else. If she is not comfortable disclosing something to her doctor, try to find out why. Offer to help find a doctor she will feel comfortable talking to.

Psychoeducation classes help first-time patients by teaching them and their families about the illness and what is likely to happen next. Cognitive therapy may sometimes help correct delusions, while other therapeutic approaches can improve the patient's ability to handle stress.