Information for Teachers
Background on psychosis in schools
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Schools are the first point for identification, referral, and early intervention for youth beginning to display signs of psychosis, with teachers often being the first to notice
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The first symptoms of psychosis often appear during the last years of school
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Symptoms include increased irritation/anxiety and withdrawal from family and friends
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These behaviours can alienate the families and friends of these youth and increase the risk of youth leaving school and developing substance use disorders
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Access to care, therefore, becomes a persistent issue for these youth, creating delays in treatment, significantly worsening health outcomes
What are risk factors for the development of psychosis and its associated disorders?
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Risk factors do not mean that a person will develop psychosis, but awareness is an important way to support early intervention
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Psychosis can affect anyone, but some factors increase the risk of developing psychosis:
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Environmental stress and trauma in childhood
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The use of cannabis, in particular:
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Being under 15 at first use
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Frequent use
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Using cannabis with high levels of THC
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Genetic heritability: close relatives of those with psychotic disorders are at a significantly higher risk for developing a psychotic disorder
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What are the signs and symptoms of early psychosis?
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Onset of psychosis is usually preceded by a period, called the prodromal phase, which can lasts one to three years and usually begins in the late teens
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The prodrome is identified by symptoms not readily diagnosable as a single disorder, but patterns often emerge that alter the level of functioning
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Prodromal phase symptoms include:
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reduced concentration and disorganized thoughts,
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decreased interest in usual activities and social withdrawal
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unusual suspiciousness
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irritability, anxiousness, and/or depressed mood
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deterioration of schoolwork
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preoccupation with bizarre or disturbing thoughts
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Where to Get Further Information
School Counsellor
Consult with your school's guidance counsellor or student services team if you have concerns about a student's mental health or well-being.
Central Intake for Children and Youth (Metro Area Only)
Parents, guardians, and youth can self-refer for child and youth mental health services. Teachers can provide information about this service and encourage families to contact Central Intake when appropriate.
Phone: 709-777-2200
Mental Health and Addictions Navigator
Provides information and helps connect children, youth, and families with mental health and addictions services throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.
Phone: 709-752-3916 or toll-free at 1-877-999-7589
(Video Relay Service [VRS] calls welcome)
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm
Schizophrenia Society of Newfoundland and Labrador (SSNL)
Provides information, education, and support for youth, families, and professionals seeking information about psychosis and mental illness.
Phone: 709-777-3335
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00am – 4:00pm
Website: www.ssnl.ca
Doorways
Offers free single-session counselling through in-person, telephone, or video appointments. Services are available across the province, and no referral is required. Teachers can share this resource with students and families seeking timely support.
Find a clinic near you: nl.bridgethegapp.ca/service-directory/doorways-walk-in-clinic-counselling
Early Psychosis Intervention
An online resource that provides information about the signs and symptoms of early psychosis, treatment options, and supports available for youth and families.
Website: https://www.earlypsychosis.ca
Amal Wellness Centre (St. John's Area Only)
Provides counselling and family support services that may benefit students and families requiring additional support.
Phone: 709-769-1285
Email: intake@amalnl.ca
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00am – 9:00pm
211 Newfoundland and Labrador
A free information and referral service that connects individuals and families with community, health, and social services.
Phone: Dial 2-1-1 anytime.
Online: nl.211.ca (Chat services available Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 10:30pm)
Mental Health Services Across Newfoundland and Labrador
Call 811 for information about mental health services and supports available anywhere in the province.
In a Mental Health Crisis
Call 811 or direct the student and family to the nearest hospital emergency department.