What is First Episode Psychosis?

First episode psychosis simply refers to the first time someone experiences psychotic symptoms or a psychotic episode. People experiencing a first episode may not understand what is hap¬pening. The symptoms can be highly disturbing and unfamiliar, leaving the person confused and distressed. Unfortunately nega¬tive myths and stereotypes about mental illness and psychosis in particular are still common in the community.

A psychotic episode occurs in three phases. The length of each phase varies from person to person.