Early intervention in first episode psychosis: hope for a better future.

In the last two decades the clinical and research focus in psychotic disorders has shifted to first episode psychosis, early detection of the prodromal phase of psychosis and an effective integrated treatment model known as "Early Intervention". The first five years of psychosis that is described as a "critical period" is the most important time for recognition and treatment. Services for Early Intervention should be easily accessible, non-threatening and non-stigmatising.