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Last update: |
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22-Nov-2025
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Arch Hellen Med, 43(1), January-February 2026, 106-111 SPECIAL ARTICLE Clinical practice of mental health professionals in early intervention units for psychosis: Challenges and dilemmas S. Martinaki,1,2 A. Papaioannou2 |
Early intervention in psychosis services (EIPS) are newly established structures in Greece focused on social psychiatry. Their formation was inspired by the positive evaluations of their impact on young people and their families in foreign countries over the past three decades. The philosophy underlying EIPS is based on clinical management and assessment principles. Mental health professionals assess the needs of patients and caregivers, along with their satisfaction levels, to plan, evaluate, and continuously enhance the quality of services provided. Despite ongoing efforts, mental health professionals encounter significant challenges, particularly with "difficult" patients and "difficult" families, which can limit the effectiveness of their interventions. Overcoming these challenges requires professionals to develop their inner ethical principles and competencies. The clinical case presented highlights the ethical principles and dilemmas that mental health professionals in EIPS frequently encounter in their practice.
Key words: Difficult patient, Early intervention in psychosis services, Ethical dilemmas, Ethics.
