Topic
Overview of Early Psychosis Identification and Intervention
Because schizophrenia spectrum disorders are relatively common, affecting approximately 4% of young people, nearly all mental health care providers will encounter individuals experiencing psychosis or its early warning signs. The sooner individuals are identified and receive care following the first onset of psychosis spectrum symptoms, the better their functional and personal outcomes are likely to be. This session provides an overview of early psychosis symptoms across the spectrum from risk symptoms to threshold psychosis disorders. Research- and practice-informed strategies for recognizing, assessing and responding to psychosis spectrum symptoms will be presented in the context of social determinants of health that may impact recognition and referral pathways. Attendees will learn about evidence-based coordinated specialty care programs for early psychosis, and ways to facilitate connection to local care for individuals experiencing early psychosis.