Early intervention refers to getting help early for people showing the early signs and symptoms of a mental health problem. Recent research indicates that early intervention and treatment dramatically impact the course of mental illness. It can help individuals build resiliency, get better more quickly and prevent problems from becoming worse.

Other benefits of early intervention for someone experiencing a mental illness include:

• reduced vocational/developmental disruption
• reduced need for hospitalization
• reduced family disruption
• reduced risk of suicide
• lower risk of relapse

The following video offers additional information regarding the importance of early intervention.