Rehab Reports: Psychotic Episodes Preparation

Columbus, OH - SUN Behavioral Health Columbus, a local rehab facility, published a blog post explaining what to do if someone is experiencing a psychotic episode. Psychosis is not a single symptom that someone might have but a collection of symptoms that result in a person being disconnected from reality. The most common symptoms include delusions and hallucinations. Still, someone experiencing psychosis may also have concerns with thinking logically, be unable to distinguish what is real, have paranoid thoughts, have unusually intense ideas, have a lack of emotions, be unable to communicate with others, or spend a lot of time alone.

“The best thing you can do to avoid feelings of panic is to have a plan for a psychiatric emergency, much like one would have a plan for a fire in the house, or a tornado. If you or your loved one has recently been diagnosed with a condition that might lead to psychiatric episodes, these plans can be especially important. Keep in mind that not everyone who has been diagnosed with a condition that might come with psychiatric episodes will experience one. But knowing what to do in case one happens can keep you and your loved one safe,” the blog post states.

Wellness Recovery Action Plans (WRAP), sometimes called crisis plans, are specific lists that allow everyone involved to know the exact information to keep everyone safe. These are often created between a healthcare professional and patient, ensuring they are comfortable and on board with the decisions made. The plan should include the names and numbers of healthcare providers, family and friends, and others who can help during a crisis. It should also include any addresses to which the person can be taken and crisis line numbers. Personal information about the person should also include a record of previous episodes, triggers, things that have helped in the past, and their diagnosis and medications. This way, everyone involved in the event of a psychotic episode knows what to expect and what they should do.

Another plan that can be made for someone who has a history of psychotic episodes is a Psychiatric Advance Directive (PAD) or, as it is known in Ohio, a Declaration for Mental Health Treatment. This legal document allows a trusted individual to make mental health decisions for a person if they cannot make those decisions for themselves. Other powers of attorney cannot override this document unless the person has a living will. This document is not permanent, as it requires renewal every 3 years. It can be revoked anytime if the person can mentally consent when they wish to revoke it.

In a psychotic episode, there are 4 steps that someone should take. The first step is to remain calm and observe the situation. The second step is to de-escalate the situation. The third step is to calmly express concerns about behaviors. The fourth step is to offer non-threatening options. Non-threatening options can involve taking them to a crisis care center for stabilization. While some people might believe the emergency room is the most logical option, they are not always best equipped for mental health emergencies because they might lack resources or space. However, suppose there are serious injuries as a result of the psychotic episode. In that case, the ER is the best place to go.

“24/7 crisis care centers are an excellent alternative for psychiatric emergency help. These centers relieve the pressure on ERs and have the proper staff, resources, and tools to ensure your loved one remains safe and receives help. Not every crisis care center is open 24/7, and a psychotic episode can happen at any time. This is why it is essential to put a 24/7 option on your plans, so you have a place to go no matter the day or time a psychiatric emergency occurs,” the blog post continues.

SUN Behavioral Health Columbus solves unmet needs in the community. Their 24/7 crisis care is available for both adolescents and adults who are experiencing a mental health crisis, such as a psychotic episode. They also offer no-cost care assessments that enable them to work with potential patients and their doctors to design a treatment plan that will provide the best opportunity for healing.

To learn more, call them at 614-706-2786 or visit their website today. SUN Behavioral Health solves unmet needs.