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First psychosis liaison unit family education programme

First Psychosis Liaison Unit, Bentley Health Service, Western Australia

Aims and methods This study presents an evaluation of an education programme for families whose relative has experienced a first episode of psychosis. Participants attended a five-week programme and were asked to rate their level of knowledge and confidence in managing the illness before and after the education sessions.

Results Two consecutive groups of relatives (n=9; n=11) attended the programme. Comparison of knowledge and confidence ratings before and after the education sessions demonstrated significant levels of change at the final session for both groups.

Clinical implications Education for relatives of people experiencing psychosis for the first time is an important component in community management. Such education improves the knowledge and confidence of relatives in coping with the illness, possibly leading to a more accepting and less stressful family environment, reducing the risk of relapse and promoting the psychological health of the patient.