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Psychosis: guidelines for providing mental health first aid to an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person (2008)

Author

Mental Health First Aid Australia

Publisher

Mental Health First Aid Australia

City

Melbourne

Type

Factsheet

Description

This set of guidelines consists of recommendations for providing mental health first aid to an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person who is experiencing psychosis. The guidelines are directed at members of the public who are encouraged to follow the recommendations until professional help is received or the crisis is resolved.

The guidelines provide information on the following areas:

the signs and symptoms of psychosis
how to approach someone who appears to be experiencing psychotic symptoms
how to discuss the problem with the person and keep them safe
what to do in a crisis situation
tips on seeking professional help.

The guidelines were developed based on information provided by expert clinicians and are are respectful of the cultural differences in understanding and treating mental illness.

Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet abstract

When to use this resource

These guidelines should be followed by members of the public when providing assistance to an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person who is experiencing psychosis. The guidelines are recommendations only and should not be used in the place of professional help.