1st Step Early Psychosis Intervention Program

For Families:

Some helpful hints for preparing for and attending an interview:

• Write down exactly what has been happening and what you have observed. Include what actions you may have taken up to now. Bring this with you.
• Write down questions you may have (you'll probably find that you have more during the interview). Be persistent in asking your questions.
• Take paper and pen with you to write down what is said so you don't have to rely on your memory afterwards.
• Be realistic in your expectations. This is an initial meeting and more meetings may be scheduled. Change happens slowly.
• Be sure to get a sense of when you will hear back about test results, follow-up appointments, etc.

Keep a list of who you see, when, why, what they say and what happens. It will give you the confidence to be sure that you have your thoughts in order when dealing with people who may not have the whole picture.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN DURING AN ASSESSMENT FOR THE INDIVIDUAL CONCERNED?

Whether you see your family doctor, a mental health clinic or a psychiatrist, it is likely that a range of information will be gathered. All mental health clinicians as well as physicians are guided by the rules of confidentiality. That means that whatever you discuss will remain confidential within the treatment team unless you agree to share the information with others such as a family member.

A full history might include:

• Physical illnesses
• Developmental information
• School history
• Problems related to social environment or family environment
• Occupational history
• Housing problems
• Economic problems
• Legal problems
• Addiction problems
• Is there a family history of mental illness? How was it treated?

The interviewer will ask more specifically about the presenting problem:

• When did it start?
• What was going on in the person's life at the time?
• How did it affect daily functioning (e.g. school/work, social life, family life)?
• They will likely want to zero in on specific symptoms and ask about the presence of others not mentioned.
• You may not be able to tolerate a full interview. Information can also be gathered more slowly over time.
• If you agree, a family member may be asked to sit in on the interview at some point to help clarify information.
• A physician might then make a formulation of what appears to be happening and suggest treatment. It may also be suggested that the person have a complete physical examination.
• It may not be clear that you have a psychiatric illness. Treatment may not be recommended. Instead, the physician or mental health worker might suggest a referral to help you deal with some of the issues that are troubling you.