Episode 201

First Episode Psychosis - What GPs Need To Know Part 1

In this episode of The Good GP, host Dr Karin Sekhon is joined by Dr Gordon Shymko, a psychiatrist and clinical director of the Perth Headspace Youth Early Psychosis Program. Dr Shymko brings over 30 years of clinical experience in psychiatry, with a special interest in the management of psychotic disorders and early intervention in youth.

They focused on the topic of first episode psychosis (FEP) and what general practitioners (GPs) need to know to identify and support patients presenting with these conditions. Dr Shymko highlights the crucial role of GPs in early detection, as they are often the first point of contact for young people experiencing subtle changes or distress suggestive of psychosis.


Key topics covered in this episode include:

  • Clinical features and presentation of first episode psychosis, include recognising changes in functioning, paranoia, delusional themes, and auditory hallucinations.
  • They discussed the typical age of onset and differences between genders.
  • The concept of prodromal symptoms and the importance of knowing the patient's baseline functioning.
  • The relative rarity of psychotic disorders compared to more common mental health presentations, and the significance of conducting a thorough history to uncover less obvious psychotic or manic symptoms.
  • The role of family history in identifying risk of psychosis.
  • Recommended organic screening and investigations, and indications for brain imaging or neurological examination.
  • Guidance on referral pathways for patients with suspected psychosis, including when to refer to public mental health services, Headspace Early Psychosis Programs, and private psychiatrists, depending on acuity and available resources.


They also discussed the challenges GPs face in accessing specialist mental health services for their patients, and the importance of early intervention in improving long-term outcomes for young people experiencing psychosis.


The Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.


If you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information

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About the Podcast

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The Good GP
The Good GP, the education podcast for busy GPs

About your hosts

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Tim Koh

Dr Tim Koh is a Perth-based GP with over 20 years of experience and a strong focus on GP education and evidence-based practice. He provides practical insights and advice on key topics in primary care.
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Krystyna de Lange

Dr Krystyna de Lange is a GP with nine years of experience, specialising in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, women’s health, and chronic disease management. She delivers practical insights and fosters engaging discussions on essential health topics.
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Sean Stevens

Dr Sean Stevens is a GP with 27 years of experience, recognised for his expertise in medical education and innovation. He has contributed to over 60 episodes, sharing valuable insights to promote quality care in general practice.