New directions in the psychosocial approach to the psychoses

Abstract

There has been a considerable research effort over the last 10 years or so developing and implementing in service practice, psychosocial interventions for the psychoses. In this special section we anticipate developments over the next few years in three key areas: their range of application, new theoretical models and implementation in the community care context. Six topic areas are focused upon - substance misuse co-morbidity, manic depression, cognitive therapy, family intervention, early intervention and models of community care - and we have sought contributions from those who are working at the `leading edge' in these areas. The result is a fascinating glimpse into this rapidly developing field; and what unites them is a firm focus upon the person with psychosis as an active agent searching for meaning and control over psychosis and the survival of the self.