Fourth Edition, September 2011

Educational implications
Students who are experiencing a psychosis may have great diffi
culty managing classroom settings and 
day-to-day social interactions. The may have diffi
culty focusing on tasks, completing assignments, and 
getting along with other students. Their peers may have diffi
culty understanding their erratic behaviour, 
and, as a result, they may be isolated. Once the psychosis has been treated, it may be very diffi
cult for the 
student to regain the friendships they once had.

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J 3
Psychosis
Making a Diff erence: An Educators’ Guide to Child and Youth Mental Health Problems
www.cymhin.ca
Psychosis: Suggestions for Supporting Your 
Student in School

Help to create a non-stigmatizing environment by raising awareness about mental 
health issues and encouraging other students to be supportive.

Teach students about the brain and disorders like psychosis.

Be aware that changes in a student may be signs of impending psychosis.

Refer students who show early warning signs to school counsellors.

Understand that a student dealing with psychosis may require modifi cations in their 
school program.

Be aware that symptoms can fl uctuate.

Capitalize on a student’s strengths to enhance their learning; educational testing may 
help to clarify these strengths.

Break down tasks into smaller pieces; minimize distractions; have a plan to redirect the 
student to help him/her return to the task at hand.

Assist the student with planning and organizational skills.

Give short, concise directions.
More information
Canadian Mental Health Association: www.cmha.ca
Information on psychosis and early intervention psychosis treatment
Canadian Schizophrenia Association: www.schizophrenia.ca
Information on psychosis and substance abuse
Prevention and Early Intervention Program for Psychosis: www.pepp.ca
Information on early psychosis intervention programs

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K 1
Talking about Mental Health Problems
Making a Diff erence: An Educators’ Guide to Child and Youth Mental Health Problems
www.cymhin.ca