Explore long-term strategies to manage psychosis
Navigating psychosis can be challenging, but you’re not alone in your journey. Remember that you have the power to actively shape your long-term care and overall wellbeing in a way that works for you. Experiencing psychosis can be scary and alienating, but many people report that over time, they learn what strategies work for them, and develop confidence with managing their symptoms.
Below you can find some strategies that can help you manage your psychosis long term.
- Understanding the nature of psychosis
Psychosis is often a long-term journey, but that doesn’t mean it will dictate your life. Understanding that it’s possible to lead a fulfilling life with psychosis is the first step to taking control. Even though it may sometimes feel overwhelming, you have the ability to manage your psychosis with the right tools. It's all about knowing your triggers and planning for them. This way, when symptoms show up, you're prepared.
For example, you could write a crisis plan and have a screenshot of it in your phone so if triggers and symptoms arise, you have easy access to an immediate tool.
- Having a crisis plan
- Building a supportive treatment team
“I can manage my psychosis way better now than I used to because I understand what it is and why it's happening. ”
Symptom management and coping strategies
- Developing resilience
Resilience is having an inner strength that helps you get through tough times. Building this resilience is about learning to navigate challenges more smoothly. Unfortunately, it’s realistic that you will face challenges, and some of them may be really significant. But if you can focus on learning better ways to manage, and what works for you through each challenge, over time, you’ll find they’re easier to sail through.
By focusing on solutions, and breaking tasks into achievable steps, you can feel more in control.
For example, if managing your medication becomes a challenge for you, try breaking the problem down:
- Draft a medication timetable
- Set daily reminders on your phone
- Organise your doses with pillboxes.
Tackling issues step by step can give you a sense of control and confidence. Remember, every step forward, no matter how small, is progress on your journey.
- Identifying triggers and warning signs
- Adopting Cognitive Behavioural techniques
Strategies for overall wellbeing
- Setting realistic goals
Achieving goals is like planting little flags on your psychosis journey, to show you’re making progress. The trick is to keep these goals achievable. Start with small steps, like making your bed daily or remembering to take your medication. And when you tick something off, even if it’s the smallest step, celebrate it like it’s a big win. Because it is!
Every win, no matter how tiny, is a step forward. Remember, there might be days when symptoms feel more challenging. If you're feeling drained or things change, reshape your goals to fit where you're at. It’s your journey, and you get to decide the pace.
- Structuring daily routine
- Self-care and wellness practices
- Connection and social support
- Mindful use of technology and media
Embracing a holistic approach
- Managing multiple conditions
Facing mental health challenges can be tough, especially if you're dealing with more than one at a time. It's not uncommon to experience psychosis alongside other issues like depression, anxiety, or substance misuse. It's important to address everything you're feeling, even if it’s not necessarily related to psychosis.
A detailed check-up can help figure out your needs. While some treatments may suit psychosis, others might be necessary to help with different challenges. Taking care of all aspects of your wellbeing is important and seeking help is just another step towards feeling better.
- Self-advocacy in treatment
