Meeting February 2004
Fraser South EPI (Early Psychosis Intervention) Parents' Meeting, Tuesday February 24, 2004
The meeting was facilitated by family members in association with Walter Lidster
the EPI group and family counselor and Nancy Clarke (BCSS).
Announcements
There will be an EPI education night on May 4th more information to follow.
TOPIC
The topic for this meeting was "What is a Symptom"
A brief introduction discussed the fact that as the illness often strikes
during adolescence, many symptoms are often mistaken for other more
'acceptable' causes. Withdrawal, reclusiveness, sudden outbursts are often
ascribed to normal adolescent behaviour or 'hormonal' issues.
Upon examining symptoms recognised by family members present it was shown
that symptoms can range from barely recognizable to bizarre. There were many,
many symptoms discussed and it was pointed out that not all symptoms are
experienced by all people suffering psychosis. The two main types of symptoms;
positive and negative were discussed.
Caring and Sharing:
Once again there were several new families in attendance. The opportunity for
people to meet other families, and learn strategies for coping with issues which
are common or similar to the ones they are experiencing, is obviously a big help.
Many of the new families are just beginning to grasp the enormity of their
issues and are learning solid information which can really help them.
The stories of success are very encouraging.
If you have comments you would like to share please email pspops@psychosissupport.com