Maximizing function after first-episode psychosis

Interest in early and preventive interventions in patients with psychotic disorders has increased over the past few years as a result of the intuitive appeal of such interventions. Results of studies point to an association between longer duration of untreated psychosis and poor outcome, atypical antipsychotic agents less likely to cause extrapyramidal side effects, and a shift from hospital to community-based care for many patients with severe mental illness. Treatment strategies specifically directed to first-episode psychosis may help to improve outcomes. Such strategies include the use of lower doses of antipsychotic medications, the predominant use of atypical antipsychotic agents, and the deployment of psychological interventions that address the unique needs of young, first-episode patients and their families.