HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The Hawaii Department of Health’s (DOH) “OnTrack Hawaii” program has launched a new campaign recognizing early signs of psychosis in youth.
“Start with Care” is part of the DOH’s Child & Adolescent Mental Health Division, and is working to build awareness and encourage open conversations to help local youth and young adults feel less isolated and more supported.
The campaign is designed to provide early intervention to teens and young adults experiencing unusual thoughts and behaviors or having started hearing or seeing things that others don’t.
It also offers time-limited services, including therapy, medication management, youth partner and support with education and employment, to help individuals navigate early psychosis and build lasting resilience.
As part of its efforts, the campaign is launching social media posts and PSAs starting Monday, emphasizing the importance of being present and the meaningful difference that social support can make for youth who may be struggling.
DOH says taking the time to listen, check in and provide reassurance can help reduce fear, normalize symptoms and build trust between young people and their support systems.
“Often when a young person is experiencing symptoms of psychosis for the first time, they feel scared or confused, or are too embarrassed to talk about what is happening to them,” said Dr. Theresa Chen, program director of OnTrack Hawaii.
“With early support, young people experiencing psychosis can reach their educational, vocational and relationship goals,” Chen said.
More information about early intervention and youth mental health resources related to psychosis can be found online here.
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