We must be very patient and understanding. It is important to understand that a person with a psychotic disorder does not really voluntarily refuse to receive help, but rather that one of the symptoms of the disorder is a lack of perception of the illness. This means that the person is not aware of what is happening to them and, therefore, does not perceive the need to receive help or treatment.

If the person is in a situation where they are putting their life at risk, threatening to harm themselves or commit suicide, or may endanger the life of another person, the possibility of involuntary admission should be assessed. If this is not the case, what we should do is:

• Remember that the person is dominated by the disorder and has difficulty being aware of their situation.
• Be patient and understand that helping the person become aware of what is happening to them takes time.
• Avoid pressuring her, judging her or making comments that could make her feel guilty.
• Try to connect with the most emotional part and encourage the person to share how they feel, what worries them, their fears, their anxieties... It is from here that we can help them become aware.
• Remind them that the decision to get help and regain control of their life is theirs.
• Express to them that they will always have our support and affection and that we will team up with them to overcome the psychotic outbreak.
• Be honest with our emotions and feelings and express them in a respectful and calm way.
• Show empathy so that they know they can talk to us about what's happening to them and how they're feeling.
• Offer him support and company and let him know that he is not alone in facing this problem.
• Connect as we usually do and suggest activities to do together, although there will be days when they don't want to and would prefer to stay at home.
• We should not downplay the problems he tells us about; and we should not judge or criticize what he tells us or his behavior.
• Encourage them to talk to an adult (family member, teacher, professional...) they trust, to explain what is happening to them. If you feel able, and your friend allows it, you can accompany them in the process.