Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders

For LEOs with a single brief psychotic disorder or schizophreniform disorder** the following required conditions must be met prior to return to full duty:

no psychotic symptoms for 6 months after completion of treatment (off medication)
absence of impairing symptoms in the past 2 months
if requested by the police physician, an evaluation by a doctoral-level mental health provider acceptable to the police physician, who understands the functions and demands of police work
adherence to treatment and ongoing evaluations
no disqualifying adverse effects from treatments such as medication, electroconvulsive therapy, etc. (see Medications chapter)
unimpaired judgment and attention
appropriate inter-personal interaction
treatment of comorbidities (including substance abuse and sleep disorders)

LEOs suicidal ideation or attempt, or personality disorders will require additional evaluation.

Follow-up evaluations: regular evaluations for at least 12 months.

For LEOs with secondary psychosis, the following required conditions must be met prior to return to full duty:

the cause of the psychotic disorder has been successfully treated and managed
the psychotic symptoms have resolved for at least 6 months
off antipsychotic medication for 6 months
evaluation by a psychiatrist or by a licensed doctoral-level psychologist

**These two diagnoses can only be made after secondary psychoses have been excluded.

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Mental Health

Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders

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