Summary

In this study session you have learned that:

1. Psychoses are characterised by disturbances of thought such as delusion, hallucination and/or loss of reality contact. People with psychosis often do not realise they are ill.
2. There are four different forms of psychoses: acute psychoses, chronic psychoses, recurrent psychoses, and organic psychoses.
3. Early identification of psychoses involves considering the symptoms listed in Box 13.1.
4. Once it is recognised that a person is suffering from an acute episode of psychosis or from a psychotic relapse, it is essential that they are referred urgently to a higher-level health facility with appropriate mental health services.
5. People suffering from psychoses should not be subjected to criticism or abuse. Respect, honest advice, and support from you, their family and the community are the most effective means of ensuring adherence to treatment and successful recovery.