Antipsychotics

 
 

What are Antipsychotics?

Antipsychotics are medications used to manage symptoms of psychosis — such as hallucinations, delusions, or disorganised thinking — and other severe mental health conditions. They help regulate brain chemistry and can reduce distressing experiences, improve functioning, and support stability.

 

Who are Antipsychotics for?

Antipsychotics are prescribed for people experiencing moderate to severe symptoms that affect perception, thought, or behaviour. These medications are most commonly used to treat:

  • Schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder

  • Bipolar disorder (during manic or psychotic episodes)

  • Severe depression with psychotic features

  • Delusional disorder

  • Psychosis related to trauma or substance use

  • Agitation or distress in dementia (in specific cases)

  • Severe anxiety, OCD, or PTSD (off-label, if other treatments have failed)

They are also used to manage mood instability, aggression, or intrusive thoughts in people with complex presentations. Antipsychotics may be prescribed short- or long-term, depending on the condition, response, and individual goals.

 

What do Antipsychotics involve?

  • Psychiatric assessment to confirm diagnosis and treatment need

  • Choice of medication tailored to your symptoms and lifestyle

  • Common types include: aripiprazole, risperidone, olanzapine, quetiapine, haloperidol, clozapine

  • Start at a low dose with gradual adjustments

  • Regular monitoring for side effects (e.g. weight, movement, sleep, blood pressure)

  • Blood tests for some medications (e.g. clozapine, olanzapine)

  • Available as tablets, liquids, or long-acting injections

  • May be combined with therapy, mood stabilisers, or antidepressants

  • Treatment plans reviewed every 1–3 months

  • Education on risks, benefits, and lifestyle support

  • Consideration of physical health (e.g. diabetes, heart health)

  • Option to taper or stop when stable — with guidance

  • Careful documentation and communication with your GP (if desired)

  • Trauma-informed, respectful, non-coercive care

  • Online and in-person appointments

Our approach
 

Our approach to Antipsychotics

At Bloomfield Health, we prescribe antipsychotics with compassion, clarity, and shared decision-making. We aim to reduce distress and restore functioning without over-relying on medication. Our team is skilled in tailoring treatment to each individual — considering mental health history, trauma, identity, and long-term goals. We carefully monitor side effects, support physical health, and always make space for questions and preferences. You remain at the centre of your care.

 

They adjust brain chemicals like dopamine to reduce symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, or thought disruption.

No — they’re also used for bipolar disorder, severe depression, and other conditions involving intense distress or disrupted thinking.

They vary by medication, but may include sedation, weight gain, restlessness, or hormonal changes. We monitor and adjust as needed.

Yes — but always under supervision. Stopping suddenly can be risky. We’ll support any changes at your pace.

No — when used well, they reduce distressing symptoms without numbing your identity or emotions.

They can help some people who struggle with daily medication or relapsing. We’ll discuss options together.

Yes — we consider sensory needs and overlapping conditions (e.g. ADHD, autism) when prescribing and adjusting treatment.

Please contact us to book an assessment. We’ll work with you to understand your symptoms and decide on the best treatment plan.

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