HOPE – Helping Overcome Psychosis Early
Specialty Care for First Episode Psychosis
Psychosis can affect the way a person thinks, perceives, communicates, and makes sense of their experiences and the world around them. A person may hear or see things that others do not, develop new or unusual beliefs, feel increasingly suspicious or fearful, or have difficulty organizing their thoughts. These experiences can feel very real to the person and may be confusing or frightening.
Psychosis is a symptom, not an illness, and it is more common than many people realize. Approximately 100,000 young people in the United States experience first-episode psychosis each year, and an estimated 3 in 100 people will experience psychosis at some point in their lives.
First-Episode Psychosis (FEP) refers to the early period when a person begins experiencing significant changes in thoughts, perceptions, beliefs, emotions, or behaviors consistent with psychosis. Early identification and connection to specialized treatment can significantly improve recovery and long-term outcomes. The earlier individuals receive appropriate support, the greater the opportunity to reduce disruption and help them continue working toward their personal, educational, vocational, and relationship goals. Psychosis can affect the way a person thinks, perceives, communicates, and makes sense of their experiences and the world around them. A person may hear or see things that others do not, develop new or unusual beliefs, feel increasingly suspicious or fearful, or have difficulty organizing their thoughts. These experiences can feel very real to the person and may be confusing or frightening.
Recognizing Early Signs
Changes associated with psychosis may develop gradually or become noticeable more quickly. Signs may include:
Noticeable changes in emotions or emotional expressionResearch has shown significant success using a treatment approach called Coordinated Specialty Care (CSC). CSC uses a team of health professionals and specialists who work with a person to create a personal treatment plan based on life goals while involving family members as much as possible. CSC has the following key components:
- Feeling increasingly suspicious, fearful, or uneasy around others, including people previously trusted
- Hearing voices or sounds, seeing things, or experiencing sensations that others do not perceive
- Developing new or unusual beliefs or behaviors that are uncharacteristic for the person
- Difficulty thinking clearly, concentrating, remembering, or maintaining attention
- Difficulty communicating with or understanding others
- Increased sensitivity to light, sound, touch, or other sensations
- New or significant difficulties at school or work
- Decline in self-care or personal hygiene
- Spending significantly more time alone or withdrawing from friends and family
- Noticeable changes in emotions or emotional expression
The HOPE Program: Coordinated Specialty Care
HOPE (Helping Overcome Psychosis Early) is Greater Nashua Mental Health’s Coordinated Specialty Care (CSC) program for individuals experiencing first-episode psychosis.
Coordinated Specialty Care is an evidence-based, team approach specifically designed to support individuals experiencing first-episode psychosis. Rather than focusing only on symptoms, HOPE works collaboratively with each person to develop an individualized treatment plan based on their needs, strengths, preferences, and personal recovery goals.
HOPE emphasizes shared decision-making and personal choice, helping individuals remain active participants in decisions about their care. Family members and other natural supports may also be involved when appropriate and consistent with the individual’s preferences and treatment needs.
CSC services may include:
- Case management
- Psychotherapy
- Medication management
- Supported education and employment
- Peer support
- Family education and support
- Care coordination
The goal of HOPE is not simply symptom reduction. Early, coordinated treatment can help individuals build on their strengths, pursue meaningful goals, increase independence, and support long-term recovery while building the life they want for themselves.
Don’t wait to take the first step. Contact Greater Nashua Mental Health at (603) 889-6147 to learn more about HOPE and available services.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health emergency, call or text the NH Rapid Response Access Point at 1-833-710-6477 for 24/7 behavioral health crisis support.
