Optimal duration of an early intervention programme for first-episode psychosis: randomised controlled trial. (June 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chang, Wing Chung; Chan, Gloria Hoi Kei; Jim, Olivia Tsz Ting; Lau, Emily Sin Kei; Hui, Christy Lai Ming; Chan, Sherry Kit Wa; Lee, Edwin Ho Ming; Chen, Eric Yu Hai
• Is Part Of: British journal of psychiatry. Volume 206:Number 6(2015)
• Page Start: 492
• Page End: 500
• Publication Date: 2015-06
• Subjects: Psychiatry -- Periodicals; Psychology, Pathological -- Periodicals; 616.89005
• DOI: 10.1192/bjp.bp.114.150144
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1250

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Numerous early intervention services targeting young people with psychosis have been established, based on the premise that reducing treatment delay and providing intensive treatment in the initial phase of psychosis can improve long-term outcome. Aims: To establish the effect of extending a specialised early intervention treatment for first-episode psychosis by 1 year. Method: A randomised, single-blind controlled trial (NCT01202357) compared a 1-year extension of specialised early intervention with step-down care in patients who had all received a 2-year intensive early intervention programme for first-episode psychosis. Results: Patients receiving an additional year of specialised intervention had better outcomes in functioning, negative and depressive symptoms and treatment default rate than those managed by step-down psychiatric care. Conclusions: Extending the period of specialised early intervention is clinically desirable but may not be feasible in lower-income countries.