Because psychosis begins when a person is in their late teens to mid-20s, it can be challenging for caregivers and healthcare professionals to know what is going on at first. It can also be difficult to know how to support your child with psychosis. Below are some tips for how you can support your child:
Show your love.
Children need love, empathy and to feel safe. Let them know you care and that their feelings are important. Be present, sit with them and tell them that they are safe.
Reassure your child.
Let your child know you are going to help them feel safe and that therapy, taking part in a daily routine and medications can help. Let them know that what they are feeling (fear, anger, sadness) is a typical response to these experiences, and encourage your child to share what their experience is like. This will help to normalize and validate these feelings.
Help your child distract themselves.
When experiencing psychosis, feeling distressed can make the psychotic symptoms worse. You can help your child manage their stress by taking part in pleasant, distracting activities, like watching a movie together, doing art together, playing a game or doing another favorite activity.
Stick to a routine.
Schedules and routines create a feeling of structure and security. Try to live and act just like usual to help your child feel safe. If you need to, make some changes to your routine to keep things simple and comfortable. It may be helpful to provide visual instructions for your child to remind them to complete daily tasks such as showering and brushing teeth.
Create a safe environment.
Create a safety plan with a professional (therapist, doctor, case worker) and find ways to make your home safer for your child. Ask your child what will help them feel safe and in control.
Reach out to your child’s doctor, therapist or psychiatrist.
Early treatment is important and provides the best hope for recovery. Treatment can slow, stop or reverse the effects of psychosis. Children with psychosis may benefit from therapy/counseling, medications, peer support and other services.
Take care of yourself.
Find time to take care of yourself and take part in meaningful activities. It is easier to be fully there and to support your child if you take care of yourself as well.
