Functional Recovery patient video

Developments in early intervention services have necessitated a thoughtful reformulation on how outcomes are defined and communicated to service users. An understanding of early detection and treatment are important for monitoring outcomes and moving towards the recovery model. Through our patient and family committee, the CCEIP has developed educational information for service users and their families on functional recovery and the importance of treatment as the cornerstone for achieving positive outcomes in schizophrenia, including tear pads and a patient video. It is critical that patients and their families can recognize warning signs of relapse and have access to resources to support the recovery journey. This resource addresses the questions “What is functional recovery?”, “When can functional recovery be achieved?” and “How can functional recovery be achieved?”.  The resource focuses on four key pillars to functional recovery:

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1. Pharmacotherapy and adherence to treatment,

2. Case management/psychotherapy,

3. Cannabis abstinence, and

4. Exercise​

With medication as a cornerstone for treatment, the patient must be educated on all available medication options, including information on administration, adherence and possible side effects.

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Author: Dr Howard Margolese