Psychosis is a serious mental health condition involving a loss of contact with reality, often featuring hallucinations, delusions, or disorganized thinking. The fastest and most effective treatment typically begins with immediate medical intervention, as untreated psychosis can worsen rapidly and lead to harm. Seeking emergency care such as calling 911 or visiting an ER is critical if symptoms are severe, especially if there's risk of self-harm or violence.

The cornerstone of rapid treatment is antipsychotic medication, prescribed by a psychiatrist as soon as possible. Medications like risperidone, olanzapine, or aripiprazole can reduce symptoms within hours to days for acute episodes. In hospital settings, intravenous or intramuscular antipsychotics may be used for faster onset in agitated patients. Early intervention significantly improves outcomes; studies show that reducing the "duration of untreated psychosis" (DUP) to under 3 months leads to better long-term recovery.

Alongside medication, hospitalization ensures safety and allows for rapid assessment, ruling out underlying causes like substance use, infections, or brain disorders. A multidisciplinary team including psychiatrists, nurses, and social workers provides 24/7 monitoring and initiates therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy for psychosis (CBTp) and family support are introduced early to reinforce medication adherence and coping skills.

For the fastest recovery, coordinated early intervention programs (like those following the RAISE model) combine antipsychotics, therapy, and social support within the first episode. These can reduce symptom severity by 50–70% within weeks. Avoid self-medication or delaying care professional help is essential. Long-term management includes ongoing medication, therapy, and lifestyle support to prevent relapse.