Recovery

Most people will recover from an episode of Psychosis. Recovery can be helped, but can also be hindered.

Recovery IS expected

Recovery Stories

For more information and advice on recovery after an episode of Psychosis have a look at our “Getting Back on Your Feet” booklet. It includes some personal recovery stories written by young people who have experienced psychotic episodes.

(PDF, 1.75MB)

Do people recover from Psychosis?

  • About 20% (1 in 5) of the people who experience Psychosis will have just one episode.
  • Most people, around 60% (3 in 5), will have more than one episode, i.e. they relapse. Between these relapses however, they will remain well and be able to live a perfectly normal life.
  • For some people, around 20% (1 in 5), symptoms and other difficulties may remain. We now understand a lot more about how to help people with Psychosis overcome these difficulties.

What Helps?

  • Taking anti-psychotic medication on a regular basis
  • Getting help early
  • Talking to people you trust about your worries and anxieties
  • Support from family and friends
  • Understanding and taking control of your illness/psychosis
  • Good living conditions
  • Jobs and training that you enjoy and value
  • Keeping physically well, good diet and exercise
  • Hobbies and pastimes that you enjoy
  • Talking to others that have experienced Psychosis
  • Giving yourself time and space when you need it
  • Talking therapies

What Doesn’t Help?

  • Illicit drugs such as cannabis, LSD, speed and cocaine, or too much alcohol
  • Putting yourself under more stress than you need to
  • Not talking, keeping things to yourself
  • Avoiding contact with others
  • Negative relationships; where there are a lot of negative comments and criticisms

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