Diagnosis - Psychosis

Talk to your GP as soon as possible if you're having symptoms of psychosis. Earlier treatment can be more effective.

What to expect at your GP

There's no test to diagnose psychosis. Your GP will ask about your symptoms and possible causes.

For example, they may ask about:

• any medicines you are taking
• any drugs you have been taking
• your moods
• your day-to-day life
• any history of mental health difficulties in your family
• any hallucinations you may have had
• any delusions you may have had
• any other symptoms you have

Referral

Who your GP refers you to will depend on the services available in your area. They may refer you to a community mental health team (CMHT).

The team is likely to include the following healthcare professionals:

• a psychiatrist - a qualified medical doctor with specialist training in mental health difficulties
• a community mental health nurse - a nurse with specialist training in mental health difficulties
• a psychologist - a healthcare professional who specialises in the assessment and treatment of mental health difficulties
• a social worker - who can provide practical help and support with issues such as family support, housing and finances
• occupational therapist - who helps people to do the everyday things that they need to do when faced with illness
• dietitian - a health professional who is an expert in diet and nutrition

Your psychiatrist will do an assessment. This will help identify and diagnose what is causing your symptoms. This will help when planning your treatment for psychosis.

Helping others

A person may not want to visit their GP if they believe there's nothing wrong with them. You may need to help them get support and treatment.

Someone who has had psychotic episodes in the past may have a key worker. Try to contact them.