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VIDEO CLIPS
PSYCHOEDUCATIONAL

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WHAT IS THE JAP CLINIC?

Dr. Amal Abdel-Baki explains the services offered at the JAP Clinic and their partners as well as the importance of intervening intensively and early in this way with young people with early psychosis.

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AFTER PSYCHOSIS, ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE

Nearly half of young people who have a first episode of psychosis manage to return to work or school after three months. Even if it may take time, it is realistic to think about eventually resuming the same or a similar life project and continuing a rewarding and independent life, despite the psychosis.

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DID YOU SAY PSYCHOSIS?

The word psychosis refers to a disease caused by a malfunction of the brain that disrupts contact with reality. About 3% of the population, from all causes, will suffer from some form of psychotic episode, i.e. a period during which they will have psychotic symptoms. Although psychosis can affect anyone (regardless of social class, education level or ethnic group), psychosis affects men slightly more than women, and the onset of the disease in men is earlier.
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DRUGS AND PSYCHOSIS: AN EXPLOSIVE COMBO

It is sometimes difficult to convince yourself to stop using, despite a first psychosis or a relapse, because it is often part of the lifestyle of many young people and it is an opportunity to socialize. Nevertheless, it is important to keep in mind that it is not because we use and do not relapse on one or more occasions that the relapse will not come. Drugs and alcohol are biological stresses for the brain and it is the cumulative stress (biological and psychological) that leads to psychosis in predisposed individuals. Since we don't always control psychological stress (job loss, breakup, etc.), using is taking a risk every time.
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MEDICATION: IS IT REALLY NECESSARY?

Taking medication is essential when treating the acute phase, i.e. when the symptoms are clear and present: delusions, hallucinations, confused thinking. The objective of medication is to stabilize the patient, to "bring him back to earth" in order to be able to start psychotherapy, i.e. a follow-up with the people involved in the treatment team: psychiatrist, occupational therapist, social worker, nurse and/or psychologist. Regular medication therefore makes it possible to effectively and often quickly control the symptoms of psychosis and then to initiate multidisciplinary treatment.

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PSYCHOSIS: DIAGNOSIS OR LABEL?

Discussion of various myths related to psychosis. Reflection on stigma in mental health and towards individuals with psychosis or other mental health problems. Possible solutions by stakeholders and testimonies of individuals who have succeeded in resuming a rewarding life project.

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CAN PSYCHOSIS BE TREATED?

The main means used to treat psychosis and avoid relapses are the combination of medication, an essential basis for the treatment of psychosis, and psychosocial interventions including psychotherapy. In addition, as explained on this site, a healthy lifestyle and stopping drug use and moderate alcohol consumption are also key elements in avoiding relapses.
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RECOVERY, ONE STEP AT A TIME

During convalescence, the person continues to have certain symptoms, at a variable intensity from one individual to another, but generally less. During this period, the risk of relapse is highest, up to 80% (without medication). Thus, most individuals will still have negative symptoms (social withdrawal, isolation, lack of motivation, lack of energy) and cognitive symptoms (concentration problems, memory, difficulty reading a book or watching a full movie). In some individuals, disorganization and hallucinations or delusions may persist for a longer period of time. However, at this stage, it is quite possible to partially reintegrate work and/or studies, one step at a time, adjusting the medication when necessary as part of a closer follow-up during the first months.