Psychosis is a medical condition that affects the brain, and is characterized by a loss of contact with reality. Individuals with psychosis often begin noticing symptoms when they are a teenager or in their early adult life, and find it difficult to tell the difference between what is real and what is not.

It is important to know that psychosis:

• affects males and females equally

• occurs in approximately 3% of the population

• occurs across all cultures and levels of status

• may be more likely for young people who have a relative with psychosis or schizophrenia 

• is treatable

Many people successfully recover from their first episode of psychosis and some may never experience another episode. Everyone can learn to proactively manage symptoms, improve overall functioning, and enhance their quality of life. Family members are typically the first to notice the changes in their loved ones. This period can be a bit confusing and be a difficult time. If you notice the early warning signs, seek advice from your family doctor, nurse, or someone you can trust.

Common warning signs include:

• Having trouble doing things that used to be easy

• Behaviors or beliefs that are out of character and new

• A decline in self-care or personal hygiene

• Spending more time alone than usual

• Trouble thinking or concentrating

The benefits of early intervention include:

• More rapid recovery and better prognosis

• Reduced secondary problems (such as depression and isolation) and work or school disruption

• Retention of social skills and support

• Decreased need for hospitalization

• Reduced family disruption and distress

• Less treatment resistance, and lower risk of relapse

New Journeys
New Journeys is a comprehensive intervention program for youth and adults, ages 15-40, who have experienced a first episode of psychosis. Treatment is provided by a team of mental health professionals who focus on helping people work toward personal goals. More broadly, New Journeys helps transitional youth navigate the road to recovery from an episode of psychosis, including supporting efforts to function well at home, on the job, at school, and in their community.
The New Journeys program empowers participants and their families to participate in developing treatment plans that are unique to their needs and goals. Treatment includes: resiliency and strength development, school and career support, family education, and peer support.

We serve individuals who are:

• Living in Yakima, Benton, or Franklin County

• Experiencing symptoms lasting no longer than 18 months

• Are not already receiving treatment for psychosis

• Experiencing symptoms not known to be caused by a medical condition or drug use

If you are interested in the New Journeys program, simply contact one of our offices near you. Comprehensive Healthcare is a part of the Washington State New Journeys Network, www.newjourneyswashington.org 

Services are provided in the following locations:

Ellensburg
707 N. Pearl Street Ste K
Ellensburg, WA 98926
(509) 925-9861

Goldendale
112 West Main Street
Goldendale, WA 98620
(509) 773-5801

Pasco
2715 Saint Andrews Loop, Ste C
Pasco, WA 99301
(509) 412-1051

Sunnyside
1319 Saul Road
Sunnyside, WA 98944
(509) 837-2089 Ext 2700

Walla Walla
1520 Kelly Place
Walla Walla, WA 99362
(509) 522-4000

White Salmon
432 N.E. Tohomish Street
White Salmon, WA 98672
(509) 493-3400

Yakima
402 S. 4th Avenue
Yakima, WA 98902
(509) 575-4084