Regional Health Systems launches new First Episode of Psychosis program

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and Regional Health Systems (RHS), a member of Regional Care Group, is addressing First Episode of Psychosis (FEP) by establishing a new program. Regional Health Systems’ FEP work is specifically targeted at assisting 15 – 35-year-olds, but others are welcome to receive treatment as well. The program officially launched on April 13, and RHS continues to staff the program to address FEP needs.

RHS identified a critical gap in early intervention behavioral health services within the community and proactively pursued resources to address it. Through this effort, RHS successfully secured a grant from the Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addiction (DMHA) to establish the FEP Program.

“This grant allows us to provide FEP patients with improved recovery outcomes, support individuals and their families, and reduce relapse as well as their hospitalization,” FEP Program Supervisor Tracey Uwaeke said.

With RHS locations in East Chicago, Hammond, Highland, Hobart, and Merrillville, the FEP Program is poised to have a significant reach across Northwest Indiana. 

“We’re really trying to reach the community to help them work on their psychosis early on and reduce some of the negative impacts it can have when it is not addressed,” Uwaeke said.

FEP is defined as the first-time symptoms of psychosis, a condition that affects how an individual thinks, perceives, and understands reality, occurs. Common FEP signs include hearing or seeing things that are not actually real, unusual or strongly held beliefs, difficulty thinking clearly or concentrating, sudden changes in behavior or emotions, and withdrawal from friends, school, or work. 

According to RHS, it can happen to anyone. Support, especially early, can improve recovery outcomes, restore optimal functioning at school, work, and home, reduce hospitalization, support families and caregivers, and provide hope and empowerment.

“We officially launched the program on April 13th,” Uwaeke said. “We’re working on referrals and collaborations out in the community.”

RHS’ FEP Program is highly specialized. That means it is person-centered, team-based, and facilitates strengths-driven care. The program includes psychiatric evaluation, medication support, case management and coordination, individual and family therapy, education support, and employment support.

To learn more about Regional Health Systems’ FEP program, you can call 219-769-4005 or visit rhs.care/first-episode-of-psychosis.Regional Health Systems provides care that supports a healthy body, spirit, and mind, including behavioral health and addiction treatment programming. This Mental Health Awareness Month, take the first steps toward making your health a priority at rhs.care.