Psychoeducation combines the elements of cognitive-behaviour therapy, group therapy, and education. The basic aim is to provide the patients and/or families knowledge about various facets of the illness and its treatment so that they can work together with mental health professionals for a better overall outcome. 

It can often empower individuals and groups of individuals and help them understand and manage the symptoms of their mental health condition to lead more fulfilling lives.

Psycho education approaches are often part of individual and group interventions in occupational therapy. We can also use them as part of self help strategies and interventions.

Common  psycho educational areas might include...

• Medication awareness

• Understanding your mental health symptoms/diagnosis 

• Identify early warning signs

• Challenging negative thoughts/thinking patterns

• Creating a stay well plan 

• Sleep Hygiene 

• Hearing voices 

• Assertiveness

• Understanding stress

• Mood and food

Some of these are discussed in more detail below.