Early detection, assessment, and optimal treatment of a first episode of psychosis

• Objective: To present the principles and practices of early intervention for psychosis. • Methods: Review of the literature. • Results: Psychosis typically begins in young adulthood and may lead to disability that lasts a lifetime. Classic symptoms of psychosis rtclude hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking. There is evidence that delay in treatment is correlated with poorer outcomes. Components of early intervention services include low-dose antipsychotic medication, case management or care coordination, famiy education, and psychosocial intervention. Pharmacotherapy is the cornerstone of early intervention and considered the first lire of treatment for a first episode of psychosis. • Conclusion: Clinicians must learn to recognize psychosis and prevent delay in treatment.