Overview Copy
Comorbidity is common in early psychosis (over 50%) and the presence of comorbid conditions can delay recovery. It is important to assess for comorbid conditions such as mood disturbance, anxiety including social anxiety, panic attacks and post-traumatic stress disorder, suicidality and substance abuse early on at the initial assessment phase as this can influence both pharmacological and psychosocial interventions. Assessment of these conditions should continue throughout treatment as comorbidity may emerge or only become apparent during recovery.
Both Substance Use and Suicide Risk are covered in this module.
Even with appropriate treatment of psychosis and any comorbidity, relapse remains a real possibility. When relapse occurs, treatment should be initiated as soon as possible. Both the client and family will require considerable support at this time. Relapse should prompt re-evaluation and revision of the treatment plan.
Activities
| Module VI | |
| Additional Readings & Webinar | Pages 87-90 (substance abuse) in Chapter 8 You may also want to read pg 91-93 on developmental disabilities in Chapter 8Motivational Interviewing Part 1 and 2 (links in “Substance Abuse” section) Watch Webinar – Client Partnered Care for Concurrent Disorders & EPI |
| Activity One | Assessing substance use |
| Activity Two | Suicide |
| Activity Three | Hospital procedures |
| Activity Four | Thought questions |
| Completion of Module | Complete Module VI Assignment – Forum Discussion |
Outcomes/Objectives
- Understand how comorbidity affects course and outcomes
- Maintain a non-confrontative and motivational approach to reducing substance use
- Understand the risk of suicide in early psychosis and how to assess risk
- Know what is appropriate care during an exacebation of psychosis or rehospitalization
- Revise relapse prevention plan and education following a relapse