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Worried about a young person's mental health?

Ways You Can Help

Your support is important

Ways you can help

When someone you care about begins exhibiting concerning behavioral changes, it can be confusing and stressful. You may not know where to turn or may feel you don’t have the right skills to help, even with those people closest to you.  A 2011 NAMI survey reveals that despite having a strong desire to help, many people witnessing a loved one in the grips of psychosis feel ill-equipped to help and are unsure of where to turn.

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While it can often feel overwhelming, there are many important, empowering steps parents, caregivers and family members can take to support the recovery process. It is important not to wait-the earlier someone you care about gets treatment, the better the chances are for a full recovery.

Common Misconception

This is my fault

While we are still not certain what causes psychosis, there is ample evidence that it is a combination of many factors.  It is easy to want to blame ourselves when someone we love is suffering.  The young person in your life is not to blame and neither are you.

Common Misconception

There is nothing I can do

While it can often feel overwhelming, there are many important, empowering steps parents, caregivers and family members can take to support the recovery process. It is important not to wait-the earlier someone you care about gets treatment, the better the chances are for a full recovery.

Ways you can help

Common Misconception

I am all alone

Caregivers may feel isolated, intimidated or self-conscious when it comes to addressing mental health. It is important to remember there are many other people who are currently living or have lived through similar experiences. You are not alone!

What is Psychosis?

Watch this brief educational video about early psychosis.

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Questions for HeadsUp?

Catherine (Cat) Conroy, M.Ed, Manager of HeadsUp
Neurodevelopment and Psychosis Section, Department of Psychiatry
Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
10th floor, Gates Pavilion, HUP
3400 Spruce Street, Rm. 10054, Philadelphia, PA 19104
headsuppaorg@gmail.com

We are available during standard business hours (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm) to answer any questions you may have about our organization or to direct you to programs in Pennsylvania that can offer clinical help.