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Educational field

How to facilitate the return to school after a psychotic episode?

When a child or young person has experienced a psychotic episode and their attendance at school has been interrupted by the acute phase of the disorder, the process of reintegration is often perceived as a challenge for the student, their family, and the school itself. Respectful support from all parties involved will be key to the success of this new path, in which the student must be at the center.

The age of onset of the disorder, the duration of the episode, pharmacological treatment, and the cognitive level prior to onset, among other factors, will determine the impact on the student's cognitive performance. Therefore, from an educational perspective, learning must be undertaken in flexible environments, with varied options and responses tailored to the students' needs. We must not forget that not everything boils down to potential cognitive impairment.

It is necessary for the educational center to provide some individual protective factors, such as:

  • Have a trusted reference person (co-tutor).
  • Having a place to go to in times of crisis.
  • Anticipate significant curricular changes.
  • Make proposals for schedule adjustments.
  • Ensure frequent tutorial follow-up.
  • Offer reduction or adaptation of curricular content.
  • Review the group planning.
  • Change the way we evaluate.
  • Promote individual and small group work.