Making Services the Best We Can for Psychosis

A project led by Canterbury Christ Church University

This a hopeful time in relation to how we understand and respond when people have experiences that may be viewed as psychosis.

From on-going research, our understanding of psychosis is changing. More people can get well and stay well than we used to think.

But the right help and support are essential. Research continues to show what works and why. This project aims to present user-friendly explanations of the best approaches, ensuring that everyone knows what kind of help should be available for the best chance of recovery.

What do we mean by Psychosis?

Sometimes people have experiences that are out of the ordinary, and not all of these experiences should be called psychosis or be seen as a problem. However, when they are distressing for the person experiencing them or for people around them it is important to seek help.

These experiences might include seeing visions, hearing voices others don’t hear, or sensing that TV or radio messages are directed personally at us. They can take many forms, and each person’s experience is unique.

It is possible to have these kinds of experiences for a short time, or only sometimes, or not to find them at all troubling.

But when these experiences are disturbing, frightening, or cause people to behave in ways that negatively affect others, then it is important to seek help.

How can research help?

With ongoing studies and new insights, we are learning more about the most effective ways to support recovery. Understanding what works—and why—can help shape better services and ensure the right help is available when it’s needed most