What needs to follow early intervention? Predictors of relapse and functional recovery following first-episode psychosis

Measures of Social and Occupational Function in Early Psychosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Deficits in social and occupational function are widely reported in psychosis, yet no one measure of function is currently agreed upon as a gold standard in psychosis research. The aim of this study was to carry out a systematic review and meta-analysis of functioning measures to determine what measures were associated with largest effect sizes when measuring between-group differences, changes over time, or response to treatment. Literature searches were conducted based on PsycINFO and PubMed to identify studies for inclusion. Cross-sectional and longitudinal observational and intervention studies of early psychosis (≤5 years since diagnosis) that included social and occupational functioning as an outcome measure were considered. A series of meta-analyses were conducted to determine effect size differences for between-group differences, changes over time, or response to treatment. Subgroup analyses and meta-regression were carried out to account for variability in study and participant characteristics. One hundred and sixteen studies were included, 46 studies provided data (N = 13 261) relevant to our meta-analysis. Smallest effect sizes for changes in function over time and in response to treatment were observed for global measures, while more specific measures of social and occupational function showed the largest effect sizes. Differences in effect sizes between functioning measures remained significant after variability in study and participant characteristics were accounted for. Findings suggest that more specific measures of social function are better able to detect changes in function over time and in response to treatment.

Predictors of relapse and engagement in care one year after ending services in an urban safety net coordinated specialty care program for first episode psychosis

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to identify risk factors for relapse (psychiatric emergency department visits or hospitalization) and lack of follow-up with outpatient psychiatric care in the 12 months after ending services in an urban safety net coordinated specialty care (CSC) program for first episode psychosis (FEP).

METHODS

The study population (n = 143) were individuals with FEP who had any CSC care between 2014 and 2021. To identify risk factors for relapse and follow up after exit, multivariable logistic regression was performed using data from electronic health records and linked insurance claims data.

RESULTS

Individuals with any emergency department visit or hospitalization 12 months prior to ending CSC (aOR = 4.69, 95 % CI 1.78-12.34) and those who were using cannabis at last CSC contact (aOR = 4.06, 95 % CI 1.56-10.56) had a higher risk of relapse after ending CSC services. Cannabis use at last contact was also associated with lower rates of outpatient psychiatric follow-up (aOR = 0.32, 95 % CI 0.12-0.94), while CSC duration in months had a small positive association with post-CSC psychiatric follow-up. There were no differences in relapse or follow-up by race or ethnicity, primary diagnosis, or medication usage.

CONCLUSIONS

Prior relapse during CSC predicted relapse in the 12 months after ending CSC services, but not outpatient follow up. Cannabis use predicted both a higher rate of relapse and a lower rate of follow up after ending services. There were no differences by race or ethnicity in our sample, suggesting that once individuals engaged in FEP care there were no evident disparities in the observed outcomes.

Antidepressants for the prevention of depression following first-episode psychosis (ADEPP): study protocol for a multi-centre, double-blind, randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Depressive episodes are common after first-episode psychosis (FEP), affecting more than 40% of people, adding to individual burden, poor outcomes, and healthcare costs. If the risks of developing depression were lower, this could have a beneficial effect on morbidity and mortality, as well as improving outcomes. Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor and a common first-line medication for the treatment of depression in adults. It has been shown to be safe when co-prescribed with antipsychotic medication, and there is evidence that it is an effective treatment for depression in established schizophrenia. We present a protocol for a multi-centre, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled clinical trial called ADEPP that aims to investigate the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of sertraline in preventing depression after FEP.

METHODS

The recruitment target is 452 participants between the ages of 18 and 65 years who are within 12 months of treatment initiation for FEP. Having provided informed consent, participants will be randomised to receive either 50 mg of sertraline daily or matched placebo for 6 months, in addition to treatment as usual. The primary outcome measure will be a comparison of the number of new cases of depression between the treatment and placebo arms over the 6-month intervention phase. Secondary outcomes include suicidal behaviour, anxiety, rates of relapse, functional outcome, quality of life, and resource use.

DISCUSSION

The ADEPP trial will test whether the addition of sertraline following FEP is a clinically useful, acceptable, and cost-effective way of improving outcomes following FEP.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN12682719 registration date 24/11/2020.

Five-year illness trajectories across racial groups in the UK following a first episode psychosis

PURPOSE

Psychosis disproportionally affects ethnic minority groups in high-income countries, yet evidence of disparities in outcomes following intensive early intervention service (EIS) for First Episode Psychosis (FEP) is less conclusive. We investigated 5-year clinical and social outcomes of young people with FEP from different racial groups following EIS care.

METHOD

Data were analysed from the UK-wide NIHR SUPEREDEN study. The sample at baseline (n = 978) included White (n = 750), Black (n = 71), and Asian (n = 157) individuals, assessed during the 3 years of EIS, and up to 2 years post-discharge (n = 296; Black [n = 23]; Asian [n = 52] and White [n = 221]). Outcome trajectories were modelled for psychosis symptoms (positive, negative, and general), functioning, and depression, using linear mixed effect models (with random intercept and slopes), whilst controlling for social deprivation. Discharge service was also explored across racial groups, 2 years following EIS.

RESULTS

Variation in linear growth over time was accounted for by racial group status for psychosis symptoms-positive (95% CI [0.679, 1.235]), negative (95% CI [0.315, 0.783]), and general (95% CI [1.961, 3.428])-as well as for functioning (95% CI [11.212, 17.677]) and depressive symptoms (95% CI [0.261, 0.648]). Social deprivation contributed to this variance. Black individuals experienced greater levels of deprivation (p < 0.001, 95% CI [0.187, 0.624]). Finally, there was a greater likelihood for Asian (OR = 3.04; 95% CI [2.050, 4.498]) and Black individuals (OR = 2.47; 95% CI [1.354, 4.520]) to remain in secondary care by follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Findings suggest variations in long-term clinical and social outcomes following EIS across racial groups; social deprivation contributed to this variance. Black and Asian individuals appear to make less improvement in long-term recovery and are less likely to be discharged from mental health services. Replication is needed in large, complete data, to fully understand disparities and blind spots to care.

Relapse, cognitive reserve, and their relationship with cognition in first episode schizophrenia: a 3-year follow-up study

Schizophrenia is frequently characterized by the presence of multiple relapses. Cognitive impairments are core features of schizophrenia. Cognitive reserve (CR) is the ability of the brain to compensate for damage caused by pathologies such as psychotic illness. As cognition is related to CR, the study of the relationship between relapse, cognition and CR may broaden our understanding of the course of the disease. We aimed to determine whether relapse was associated with cognitive impairment, controlling for the effects of CR. Ninety-nine patients with a remitted first episode of schizophrenia or schizophreniform disorder were administered a set of neuropsychological tests to assess premorbid IQ, attention, processing speed, working memory, verbal and visual memory, executive functions and social cognition. They were followed up for 3 years (n=53) or until they relapsed (n=46). Personal and familial CR was estimated from a principal component analysis of the premorbid information gathered. Linear mixed-effects models were applied to analyse the effect of time and relapse on cognitive function, with CR as covariate. Patients who relapsed and had higher personal CR showed less deterioration in attention, whereas those with higher CR (personal and familial CR) who did not relapse showed better performance in processing speed and visual memory. Taken together, CR seems to ameliorate the negative effects of relapse on attention performance and shows a positive effect on processing speed and visual memory in those patients who did not relapse. Our results add evidence for the protective effect of CR over the course of the illness.

A Scoping Review of Measures Used in Early Intervention Services for Psychosis

OBJECTIVE

The early intervention service (EIS) model for psychosis has been implemented with increasing frequency; yet, improving outcomes across domains for all patients remains challenging. Measurement-based care can strengthen outcomes by optimizing interventions and promoting alignment with standards, but it is still not widely deployed in EIS. The authors conducted a scoping review by systematically identifying and synthesizing measures used in EIS related to purpose (i.e., to assess patients, families, and programs), domains (e.g., symptoms, quality of life), and reporting perspectives (of patients, families, and clinicians).

METHODS

EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for pertinent literature published between 2000 and 2020. Two reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full texts and extracted data. Measures were classified as clinician-reported outcome measures (CROMs), patient-reported outcome or experience measures (PROMs/PREMs), or family-reported outcome or experience measures (FROMs/FREMs).

RESULTS

In total, 172 measures of 27 domains were identified from 115 articles. Nineteen measures had been used to assess programs on fidelity, service engagement, and satisfaction; 136 to assess patients on duration of untreated psychosis, symptoms, functioning, quality of life, and others; and 17 to assess families on coping and burden, background, and others. Sixty percent were CROMs, 30% were PROMs/PREMs, and 10% were FROMs/FREMs.

CONCLUSIONS

Greater inclusion of PROMs and FROMs is needed because they align with the EIS philosophy of patient and family engagement and may improve shared decision making and outcomes. A comprehensive, meaningfully synthesized archive of measures can advance measurement-based care, services research, and data harmonization in early psychosis.

What happens after early intervention in first-episode psychosis? Limitations of existing service models and an agenda for the future

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Early intervention in first-episode psychosis (FEP) improves symptomatic and functional outcomes while programs last. However, these gains may not be sustained over time and not all individuals benefit equally from such programs. This review examines the efficacy of FEP programs, as well as step-down practices and long-term outcomes to identify ways to extend the gains made in FEP programs.

RECENT FINDINGS

FEP programs improve outcomes while services last, but effects diminish over time. Step-down and discharge practices vary widely with little randomized evidence guiding practice. Extending the duration of FEP programs for all does not consistently improve outcomes, but there is some encouraging evidence that targeted psychosocial interventions after program end may extend symptomatic and functional benefits. Members of marginalized groups and individuals with poorer outcomes during the FEP period may benefit from further specialized intervention after FEP.

SUMMARY

Step down practices from FEP programs should be structured and tailored to individual needs, and benefit from sustained connections to community resources. Psychosocial interventions like social skills training, peer support, and supported education and employment may help extend the benefit of FEP programs after more intensive services end.

Piloting the 'Youth Early-intervention Study' ('YES'): Preliminary functional outcomes of a randomized controlled trial targeting social participation and physical well-being in young people with emerging mental disorders

INTRODUCTION

Young people with mental disorders present with diverse social, vocational, physical, and developmental needs. However, multifaceted interventions are rare. We examine the effectiveness of a clinical trial targeting social participation and physical well-being in young people accessing clinical services.

METHODS

The 'Youth Early-intervention Study' ('YES') was an unblinded, two-phase, pilot randomized controlled trial offered as an adjunct to standard clinical care, consisting of group activities. Mixed effects models were used to examine functional outcomes over time measured by the 'Social and Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale', 'Functioning Assessment Short Test', and 'Brief Disability Questionnaire' (items 7 and 8).

RESULTS

133 participants aged 14-25 were recruited. 87 participants completed both arms and 83 participants completed a 12-month post-trial assessment. Functioning improved across all outcomes. While diagnoses differed in functioning at baseline (lower functioning in psychotic and bipolar disorders compared to depression), they did not differ in the rate of improvement across any measure. Randomization groups did not differ in baseline functioning or the rate of improvement, suggesting a non-specific impact of the intervention. Engagement with education increased from 11% at baseline to 51% at 12-months post-trial and full-time employment increased from 8% at baseline to 20% at 12-months post-trial.

LIMITATIONS

Small sample, no control group, and unmeasured potential moderators (e.g. neurocognitive impairment).

CONCLUSIONS

'YES' was effective and preliminary positive outcomes were observed across all functional outcomes. Future studies should compare the 'YES' intervention to a treatment-as-usual control condition and conduct a multi-centre trial across early intervention service sites.

Development and external validation of an admission risk prediction model after treatment from early intervention in psychosis services

Early Intervention in psychosis (EIP) teams are the gold standard treatment for first-episode psychosis (FEP). EIP is time-limited and clinicians are required to make difficult aftercare decisions that require weighing up individuals' wishes for treatment, risk of relapse, and health service capacity. Reliable decision-making tools could assist with appropriate resource allocation and better care. We aimed to develop and externally validate a readmission risk tool for application at the point of EIP discharge. All persons from EIP caseloads in two NHS Trusts were eligible for the study. We excluded those who moved out of the area or were only seen for assessment. We developed a model to predict the risk of hospital admission within a year of ending EIP treatment in one Trust and externally validated it in another. There were n = 831 participants in the development dataset and n = 1393 in the external validation dataset, with 79 (9.5%) and 162 (11.6%) admissions to inpatient hospital, respectively. Discrimination was AUC = 0.76 (95% CI 0.75; 0.77) in the development dataset and AUC = 0.70 (95% CI 0.66; 0.75) in the external dataset. Calibration plots in external validation suggested an underestimation of risk in the lower predicted probabilities and slight overestimation at predicted probabilities in the 0.1-0.2 range (calibration slope = 0.86, 95% CI 0.68; 1.05). Recalibration improved performance at lower predicted probabilities but underestimated risk at the highest range of predicted probabilities (calibration slope = 1.00, 95% CI 0.79; 1.21). We showed that a tool for predicting admission risk using routine data has good performance and could assist clinical decision-making. Refinement of the model, testing its implementation and further external validation are needed.

Prepared for transition? A cross-sectional descriptive study of the gains attained in early psychosis programs

AIM

To examine the degree to which youth identified as ready for discharge from three Canadian early psychosis intervention (EPI) programs had achieved optimal outcomes (ie, symptom remission, quality of life, self-esteem and functioning).

METHODS

This cross-sectional descriptive study is part of a larger study assessing the effectiveness of an evidence-based intervention to sustain the gains acquired in EPI programs in two Canadian provinces (Ontario and Nova Scotia), as youth transition from EPI services to community-based care. Baseline data collected from 39 participants receiving usual treatment in these three EPI programs comprised the comparison group. Participants completed measures to assess symptoms, quality of life, self-esteem and functional level just prior to discharge.

RESULTS

Participants demonstrated lower levels of symptoms, greater quality of life, greater self-esteem and greater levels of functioning, following EPI treatment when compared to similar youth described in the literature. These findings suggest that study participants had achieved optimal outcomes following EPI treatment.

CONCLUSION

The study findings have laid the ground work for the current Canadian Institutes of Health Research partnership study in which our research group is assessing the effectiveness of an evidence-based transitional intervention in order to address critical psychosocial issues of identity, stigma, effective relationships and meaningful life goals, along with the development of an individualized 'passport for transition'. It is anticipated that implementing an evidence-based transitional intervention will support participants to maintain the gains made in EPI programs once they transition to community-based care and will inform future research addressing this challenging issue.

Smartphone-delivered self-management for first-episode psychosis: the ARIES feasibility randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

To test the feasibility and acceptability of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate a Smartphone-based self-management tool in Early Intervention in Psychosis (EIP) services.

DESIGN

A two-arm unblinded feasibility RCT.

SETTING

Six NHS EIP services in England.

PARTICIPANTS

Adults using EIP services who own an Android Smartphone. Participants were recruited until the recruitment target was met (n=40).

INTERVENTIONS

Participants were randomised with a 1:1 allocation to one of two conditions: (1) treatment as usual from EIP services (TAU) or (2) TAU plus access to My Journey 3 on their own Smartphone. My Journey 3 features a range of self-management components including access to digital recovery and relapse prevention plans, medication tracking and symptom monitoring. My Journey 3 use was at the users' discretion and was supported by EIP service clinicians. Participants had access for a median of 38.1 weeks.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Feasibility outcomes included recruitment, follow-up rates and intervention engagement. Participant data on mental health outcomes were collected from clinical records and from research assessments at baseline, 4 months and 12 months.

RESULTS

83% and 75% of participants were retained in the trial at the 4-month and 12-month assessments. All treatment group participants had access to My Journey 3 during the trial, but technical difficulties caused delays in ensuring timely access to the intervention. The median number of My Journey 3 uses was 16.5 (IQR 8.5 to 23) and median total minutes spent using My Journey 3 was 26.8 (IQR 18.3 to 57.3). No serious adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Recruitment and retention were feasible. Within a trial context, My Journey 3 could be successfully delivered to adults using EIP services, but with relatively low usage rates. Further evaluation of the intervention in a larger trial may be warranted, but should include attention to implementation.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN10004994.

Rates and Predictors of Relapse in First-Episode Psychosis: An Australian Cohort Study

Background

Clinical and functional recovery is usually achieved after treatment for a first episode of psychosis (FEP). Unfortunately, subsequent relapse remains common, occurring within a year for approximately 30% of individuals and up to 80% over 5 years. Factors that make relapse more likely in any given individual remain poorly understood.

Methods

This article presents a naturalistic cohort study of young people (15–24 years old) accessing an early intervention in psychosis service in Melbourne, Australia between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2016. Demographic and clinical predictors of relapse were collected and analyzed using Cox regression analysis.

Results

A total of 1220 young people presented with an FEP during the study period; 37.7% (N = 460) experienced at least 1 relapse during their episode of care. Over half of all relapses resulted in an admission to hospital. Non-adherence to medication, substance use, and psychosocial stressors were commonly noted as clinical precipitants of relapse. Significant predictors of relapse (vs no relapse) were a diagnosis of schizophrenia spectrum disorder (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.62) or affective psychotic disorder (aHR = 1.37), lifetime amphetamine use (aHR = 1.48), and any substance use during treatment (aHR = 1.63).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that relapse occurs frequently for young people who have experienced FEP. This is one of the first studies to report that amphetamine use (predominantly illicit methamphetamine) increases the risk of relapse. Clinical services, especially in Australasia, need to consider how best to manage this comorbidity in young people with FEP.

Rethinking Schizophrenia and Depression Comorbidity as One Psychiatric Disorder Entity: Evidence From Mouse Model

Schizophrenia is frequently accompanied by depressive symptoms, but the pathological mechanisms remain to be elucidated. In this study, we used chronic unpredicted mild stress plus MK801 injection to generate a mouse model of schizophrenia with depression, in which in vivo 2-photon calcium imaging and electrophysiological recordings were performed in conjunction with behavioral phenotyping. Compared to mice models with classical depression or to schizophrenia models, the animal models with schizophrenia and depression comorbidity presented worse psychotic and depressive symptoms. These behavioral deficits are associated with impaired neuronal calcium activities in the frontal cortex and thalamic nuclei. Moreover, in sharp contrast to classical models that have a satisfactory response to antipsychotic or antidepressant drugs, this novel schizophrenia with depression model is resilient to combined drug treatment in terms of behavioral and functional recovery. Taken together, these data indicate that schizophrenia with depression likely involves a unique pathophysiology that is different from schizophrenia or depression alone.

Community Rehabilitation for Youth with Psychosis Spectrum Disorders

Recovery-oriented treatment for youth with psychosis goes beyond a symptom and deficit-amelioration model, promoting engagement and functioning within the community. Given the challenges young people with psychosis face, early psychosis treatment programs often integrate rehabilitative components targeting functional outcomes. The current article reviews 4 community rehabilitation programs in early psychosis: care coordination, cognitive rehabilitation, supported education and employment, and peer support. For each of these rehabilitative intervention programs, we discuss challenges faced by youth with psychosis, clinical intervention practices, the current state of evidence, and clinical and/or research considerations.

Evidence-based guidelines for the pharmacological treatment of schizophrenia: Updated recommendations from the British Association for Psychopharmacology

These updated guidelines from the British Association for Psychopharmacology replace the original version published in 2011. They address the scope and targets of pharmacological treatment for schizophrenia. A consensus meeting was held in 2017, involving experts in schizophrenia and its treatment. They were asked to review key areas and consider the strength of the evidence on the risk-benefit balance of pharmacological interventions and the clinical implications, with an emphasis on meta-analyses, systematic reviews and randomised controlled trials where available, plus updates on current clinical practice. The guidelines cover the pharmacological management and treatment of schizophrenia across the various stages of the illness, including first-episode, relapse prevention, and illness that has proved refractory to standard treatment. It is hoped that the practice recommendations presented will support clinical decision making for practitioners, serve as a source of information for patients and carers, and inform quality improvement.

A post hoc analysis on hospitalization risk in Asian patients with schizophrenia switching to once-monthly paliperidone palmitate from oral antipsychotics

Background: In this post hoc analysis in patients recently diagnosed (≤5 years) with schizophrenia, the effect on hospitalization risk after switching from oral antipsychotic to once-monthly paliperidone palmitate (PP1M) was evaluated. Research design and methods: Change in hospitalization risk following PP1M initiation among patients switching from oral antipsychotics was assessed using prescription sequence symmetry analysis. Hospitalization risk was expressed as an adjusted sequence ratio (ASR) of the number of patients hospitalized prior to PP1M initiation/post PP1M initiation. Cumulative distribution of the time to hospitalization was estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method and symmetry of distribution was assessed using log-rank test. Hazard ratio and 95% CI were calculated using the Cox proportional hazard model. Results: The number of patients hospitalized after switching to PP1M: no change, 203/300 (67.7%); increase, 18/300 (6.0%); and decrease, 79/300 (26.3%). Following PP1M initiation, ASR (95% CI) was 3.56 (2.67, 5.33) suggesting asymmetry and a significant decline in hospitalization risk. Asymmetry in distribution of hospitalization events with significant (p ≤ 0.001) delay in time to hospitalization was also observed. Conclusion: Switching to PP1M treatment from oral antipsychotics is likely to be associated with a significant reduction in hospitalization risk along with a delay in time to hospitalization and rehospitalization.

Methamphetamine use in an early psychosis service: a cross-sectional retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Methamphetamine-associated psychotic symptoms are common among regular users, and can overlap with the emergence of a primary psychotic disorder. In contrast to previous research, this retrospective observational study aims to describe the characteristics of young people experiencing early psychosis who use methamphetamine regularly. We also aimed to investigate associations between regular methamphetamine use and markers of psychosocial functioning, psychosis outcomes and substance use.

METHOD

This study involved 116 young people (19 using methamphetamine regularly) referred to the Camperdown Early Intervention in Psychosis Service from January 2015 to January 2016. Variables including demographic information, psychosocial functioning and psychosis outcomes were collected on referral to the service, updated throughout treatment and at discharge.

RESULTS

There were significant associations found between regular methamphetamine use and a criminal history (p<0.001), regular cannabis use (p=0.002) and regular nicotine use (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that in early psychosis, regular methamphetamine use could signify a subgroup of young people who use multiple substances and may engage in criminal activity. Addressing substance use in early psychosis may be an important treatment target for this vulnerable group of young people.

Barriers and facilitators to "moving on" from early intervention in psychosis services

AIM

Transition from early intervention in psychosis services (EIPS) to ongoing care can be challenging for staff and service users. This study aims to explore staff views of the barriers and facilitators to transition from EIPS.

METHODS

Eighteen EIPS staff were interviewed about their experiences of discharge processes and interviews were analysed thematically.

RESULTS

Four themes were identified: (1) "nowhere to go": illustrated how service users remained in EIPS because other teams lacked capacity to take them; (2) "collaboration between agencies" highlights the challenges of working across boundaries; (3) "therapeutic relationships": reflects the loss service users and staff experienced at discharge; (4) "advanced planning" relates to the necessity for advanced planning and service user empowerment to facilitate the discharge process.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first in-depth exploration of EIPS staff views on discharge processes. To ensure seamless transitions throughout care pathways, services need better inter-agency collaboration and more adequate preparation for transition.

Patterns of recovery course in early intervention for FIRST episode non-affective psychosis patients: The role of timing

BACKGROUND

Prevention of symptom relapse and promotion of functional recovery are the two main goals of early intervention following a first episode of non-affective psychosis (FEP). The identification of patterns of recovery is important in developing and implementing recovery focused interventions at set time interval.

METHOD

Patterns of recovery course, in terms of symptomatic and functional remission, were explored at 1 and 3-year follow-up in a sample of 373 consecutive FEP patients. Relapses during this period were considered.

RESULTS

Four patterns of recovery course were defined: good stable (26%), good unstable (21%), poor unstable (10%), poor stable (43%). Those who met criteria for good stable recovery were more likely have less severe baseline negative symptoms (OR = 2.092; 95% CI = 0.99-4.419) and to not be diagnosed with schizophrenia (OR = 2.242; 95% CI = 1.015-4.954). Short DUP (OR = 2.152; 95% CI = 0.879-5.27) and low premorbid IQ (OR = 2.281; 95% CI = 0.954-5.457) increased the likelihood of good unstable recovery. Less severe baseline negative symptoms (OR = 3.851; 95% CI = 1.422-10.435) and single status (OR = 4.307; 95% CI = 1.014-18.293) increased the likelihood of a poor unstable recovery. Poor unstable pattern was significantly associated with a high relapse rate (73%).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results shed light on identifying different recovery patterns in FEP. Despite evidence for early intervention effectiveness, we should explore ways to prevent relapse and improve long-term recovery, particularly in reference to the role of timing in the design of interventions.

"Worried about relapse": Family members' experiences and perspectives of relapse in first-episode psychosis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to gain an in-depth understanding on the subject of relapse from the perspectives of family members of young people receiving services for a first-episode psychosis (FEP).

METHODS

A qualitative descriptive approach, using focus group methods, was used to elicit experiences, understandings, and knowledge of relapse in FEP. Family members were recruited from 4 specialized early intervention programmes for psychosis in Canada. A total of 24 (6 male, 18 female) family members participated in the study. Thematic analysis was used to examine the data.

RESULTS

The core underlying theme in all focus groups was worrying about relapse, which was often accompanied by significant levels of fear and anxiety, and was influenced by: (1) impact of an episode of psychosis; (2) limited confidence in recognizing and coping with relapse; (3) unmet needs for coping skills and emotional support and (4) unmet needs regarding frequency and continuity of communication with clinicians.

CONCLUSIONS

Family members' unmet needs for relapse-focused education, support and communication with service providers and peers, can have a negative impact on relapse prevention. Addressing family members' education and support needs in a tailored manner (including preferences for types of peer support) can contribute positively to their confidence and ability to recognize and respond to relapse. This can help reduce fear and anxieties about relapse, and positively influence the ability to function as caregivers. Future research should focus on best approaches for providing education, sustained contact with the clinical team and family peer support.

Employment Rates in Flexible Assertive Community Treatment Teams in The Netherlands: An Observational Study

We determined the proportions of clients treated in Flexible Assertive Community Treatment teams who were unemployed and gained employment and who were employed and lost employment. Secondly, we explored the demographical and clinical factors associated with employment. Data were collected during routine outcome monitoring. We calculated differences in employment rates over a year and explored differences in demographic characteristics at baseline between patient groups. Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the role of clinical predictor variables on employment status. Over time, 10% remained employed, 5% lost their employment, 3% gained employment and 82% remained unemployed. Clients who found employment were younger, more often male, and had significantly fewer psychosocial problems and a higher subjective quality of life during follow-up than those who remained unemployed. Problems with motivation for treatment at baseline were related to losing employment or remaining unemployed. Better implementation of vocational services is very important for increasing the number of clients gaining employment.

Social Recovery Therapy in improving activity and social outcomes in early psychosis: Current evidence and longer term outcomes

BACKGROUND

Social Recovery Therapy (SRT) is a cognitive behavioural therapy which targets young people with early psychosis who have complex problems associated with severe social disability. This paper provides a narrative overview of current evidence for SRT and reports new data on a 2year follow-up of participants recruited into the Improving Social Recovery in Early Psychosis (ISREP) trial.

METHOD

In the ISREP study 50 participants (86%) were followed up at 2years, 15months post treatment. The primary outcome was engagement in paid work, assessed using the Time Use Survey. Engagement in education and voluntary work were also assessed. In addition, the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scales (PANSS) and the Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS) were administered.

RESULTS

25% of individuals with non-affective psychosis in the treatment group had engaged in paid work at some point in the year following the end of therapy, compared with none of the control group. Data from the PANSS and BHS suggested no worsening of symptoms and an indication that gains in hope were maintained over the 15month period following the end of therapy.

CONCLUSION

Social Recovery Therapy is a promising psychological intervention which may improve social recovery in individuals with early psychosis. The new data reported in this paper shows evidence of gains in engagement in paid employment outcomes that persisted 15months beyond the period of active intervention.

The relapse rate and predictors of relapse in patients with first-episode psychosis following discontinuation of antipsychotic medication

BACKGROUND

To determine the "real world" relapse rate in patients with first-episode psychosis (FEP) who had discontinued antipsychotic medication and identify socio-demographic and clinical factors associated with the risk of relapse.

METHODS

Quantitative data were obtained via case-note review on 63 patients with FEP who had discontinued antipsychotic medication from Birmingham Early Intervention Service between 2012 and 2015. The follow-up period was until either: an occurrence of a relapse; end of 12-month study period; end of patient's case-note record. Relapse was defined as a return of symptoms requiring one of the following: home treatment, hospital admission or was based on clinical teams' decision as having a relapse. A pro-forma targeted pre-defined socio-demographic and clinical factors. Survival analysis was undertaken to estimate the 12-month relapse rate following discontinuation of antipsychotics and Cox regression performed to identify relapse predictors.

RESULTS

The Kaplan-Meier 12-month relapse estimate was 67% (95% confidence interval, 54%, 80%). Significant factors (P < .05) independently associated with an increased risk of relapse following discontinuation of antipsychotic medication were: male gender, not being in education, employment or training (NEET) and number of previous psychiatric hospital admissions.

CONCLUSIONS

Relapse is common after discontinuation of antipsychotic medication following recovery from a FEP. It is important that patients who wish to discontinue their medication are informed of the high relapse rates and the associated risks. Furthermore, male patients, patients with NEET status and those who have had previous hospital admissions may require closer monitoring.

Discharge pathways and relapse following treatment from early intervention in psychosis services

BACKGROUND

Early intervention in psychosis (EIP) services are the dominant service model in the treatment of first-episode psychosis. They are a time-limited intervention and little is known about discharge destinations and outcomes once EIP treatment has concluded.

AIMS

To understand discharge pathways and predictors of relapse in an EIP service.

METHOD

We collected data on all patients with an electronic health record treated by EIP services in Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust in the UK between 12 January 2006 and 7 March 2017 (n = 701). Our primary outcomes were discharge destination at end of treatment and relapse.

RESULTS

Most patients (83.5%) were discharged to primary care. Transfer to secondary care was associated with previous in-patient admissions (odds ratio (OR) = 1.92, 95% CI 1.54-2.39) and longer EIP treatment (OR = 1.04, 95% CI 1.03-1.06). Relapse rate was highest shortly after leaving EIP services. Relapse was associated with transfer to secondary care (hazard ratio (HR) = 2.75, 95% CI 1.75-4.31), higher deprivation (HR = 1.03, 95% CI, 1.01-1.05), a substance misuse disorder (HR = 1.81, 95% CI 1.01-3.26) and a comorbid diagnosis of a personality disorder (HR = 2.96, 95% CI 1.39-6.29).

CONCLUSIONS

Most patients treated by the EIP service in Oxfordshire did not receive ongoing mental healthcare from secondary mental health services. We identified high deprivation and those with substance misuse problems or personality disorders as EIP populations with a high risk of relapse.

DECLARATION OF INTEREST

None.

Clinical and demographic predictors of continuing remission or relapse following discontinuation of antipsychotic medication after a first episode of psychosis. A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Clinical guidelines recommend maintenance treatment with antipsychotic medication for one to two years following remission of symptoms after a first episode of psychosis. However, recent research has suggested that this may not be indicated. Consistent predictors of outcome would be beneficial to guide clinicians as to which individuals are likely to have a successful discontinuation.

OBJECTIVES

This study reviews the literature with the aim of identifying demographic and clinical predictors of either relapse or continued remission in those with a first episode of psychosis following discontinuation of antipsychotic medication.

METHODOLOGY

Data Sources: A systematic search of PubMed, CINAHL, and PsychInfo databases was performed. Eligibility Criteria: Cohort, case-control and clinical trials that were published in English, included participants with a first episode of psychosis, and examined clinical and demographic predictors of relapse or continued remission after antipsychotic discontinuation.

RESULTS

Eleven studies fulfilled inclusion criteria. No positive findings were replicated across cohorts. Predictors of relapse: male sex, unemployment, prior psychiatric admission, premorbid adjustment, childhood isolation, premorbid functioning, schizoid-schizotypal traits, schizophrenia diagnosis, concomitant medication, and more severe negative symptoms. Some positive findings must be interpreted in the context of conflicting and replicated negative findings: sex, employment status, level of education, premorbid functioning, symptom severity, and schizophrenia diagnosis. Other replicated non-predictive findings: age, ethnicity, marital status, family history, disorganized thoughts, affective symptoms, cannabis abuse, clinical global impression, social integration, duration and dose of antipsychotic treatment, and compliance.

CONCLUSION

No positive findings have been replicated across study cohorts. Non-predictive findings have been replicated.

Rates and predictors of relapse following discontinuation of antipsychotic medication after a first episode of psychosis

BACKGROUND

There is uncertainty about the required duration of long-term antipsychotic maintenance medication after a first episode of psychosis. Robust predictors of relapse after discontinuation are yet to be identified. The present study aimed to determine the proportion of young people who discontinue their antipsychotic medication after a first episode of psychosis, the proportion who experience relapse, and predictors of relapse.

METHODS

A retrospective study of all individuals presenting to the Early Psychosis Prevention and Intervention Centre between 01/01/11 and 31/12/13 was conducted. A Cox regression analysis was conducted to identify predictors of relapse.

RESULTS

A total of 544 young people with a FEP were included. A trial of discontinuation was undertaken by 61% of the cohort. Median duration of antipsychotic medication prior to first trial of discontinuation was 174.50days. Amongst those trialing discontinuation, 149 (45.8%) experienced relapse in a median follow-up time post discontinuation of 372days. On multivariate analysis, predictors of relapse were a diagnosis of cannabis abuse disorder (HR: 1.40), and longer duration of antipsychotic medication (HR: 1.05).

CONCLUSION

Antipsychotic discontinuation frequently occurs earlier than guidelines recommend. Individuals with a diagnosis of cannabis abuse are more likely to experience relapse and addressing this substance abuse prior to discontinuation could possibly reduce relapse rates.

Untreated illness and recovery in clients of an early psychosis intervention program: a 10-year prospective cohort study

PURPOSE

To investigate whether duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) and duration of untreated illness (DUI) are associated with measures of both subjective and objective recovery 10 years after a first episode of psychosis.

METHODS

A cohort of 65 clients from an early psychosis intervention program completed a battery of outcome measures 10 years following initial treatment for first-episode psychosis (FEP). The outcomes of interest were self-perceived recovery scores (Maryland Assessment of Recovery in People with Serious Mental Illness Scale) and occupational activity, defined as engagement in work and/or school on a full/part-time basis. Multiple linear and logistic regression analyses were used to estimate the associations between DUP and DUI with each measure of recovery, adjusting for potential confounding factors.

RESULTS

We did not find a statistically significant association between DUP and either occupational activity (OR = 1.26, 95% CI 0.81-1.95) or self-perceived recovery score (β = - 0.73, 95% CI - 2.42 to 0.97). However, we found a significant negative association between DUI and self-perceived recovery score (β = - 0.52, 95% CI - 0.87 to - 0.16).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that DUI may have a stronger influence than DUP on recovery from FEP at 10-year follow-up. This suggests the potential value in targeted interventions for people with a long DUI to increase the likelihood of achieving recovery after the first episode of psychosis.

Social recovery therapy in combination with early intervention services for enhancement of social recovery in patients with first-episode psychosis (SUPEREDEN3): a single-blind, randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Provision of early intervention services has increased the rate of social recovery in patients with first-episode psychosis; however, many individuals have continuing severe and persistent problems with social functioning. We aimed to assess the efficacy of early intervention services augmented with social recovery therapy in patients with first-episode psychosis. The primary hypothesis was that social recovery therapy plus early intervention services would lead to improvements in social recovery.

METHODS

We did this single-blind, phase 2, randomised controlled trial (SUPEREDEN3) at four specialist early intervention services in the UK. We included participants who were aged 16-35 years, had non-affective psychosis, had been clients of early intervention services for 12-30 months, and had persistent and severe social disability, defined as engagement in less than 30 h per week of structured activity. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1), via computer-generated randomisation with permuted blocks (sizes of four to six), to receive social recovery therapy plus early intervention services or early intervention services alone. Randomisation was stratified by sex and recruitment centre (Norfolk, Birmingham, Lancashire, and Sussex). By necessity, participants were not masked to group allocation, but allocation was concealed from outcome assessors. The primary outcome was time spent in structured activity at 9 months, as measured by the Time Use Survey. Analysis was by intention to treat. This trial is registered with ISRCTN, number ISRCTN61621571.

FINDINGS

Between Oct 1, 2012, and June 20, 2014, we randomly assigned 155 participants to receive social recovery therapy plus early intervention services (n=76) or early intervention services alone (n=79); the intention-to-treat population comprised 154 patients. At 9 months, 143 (93%) participants had data for the primary outcome. Social recovery therapy plus early intervention services was associated with an increase in structured activity of 8·1 h (95% CI 2·5-13·6; p=0·0050) compared with early intervention services alone. No adverse events were deemed attributable to study therapy.

INTERPRETATION

Our findings show a clinically important benefit of enhanced social recovery on structured activity in patients with first-episode psychosis who received social recovery therapy plus early intervention services. Social recovery therapy might be useful in improving functional outcomes in people with first-episode psychosis, particularly in individuals not motivated to engage in existing psychosocial interventions targeting functioning, or who have comorbid difficulties preventing them from doing so.

FUNDING

National Institute for Health Research.

A NEET distinction: youths not in employment, education or training follow different pathways to illness and care in psychosis

PURPOSE

The early phases of psychosis, including the prodrome, often feature educational/occupational difficulties and various symptoms and signs, that can render or keep youths "Not in Employment, Education or Training" (NEET). Conversely, NEET status itself may increase risk for illness progression and impaired functioning, and impede access to appropriate services for psychosis. As these issues have not been investigated, we aimed to examine differences in the illness and care pathways and characteristics of youths with psychosis who are NEET and non-NEET.

METHODS

Youths entering a catchment-based Canadian early intervention service for psychosis (N = 416) were assessed as being NEET or non-NEET and compared on symptomatology, premorbid adjustment, prodrome and duration of untreated psychosis (DUP).

RESULTS

Thirty-nine percent of the sample was NEET. Compared to non-NEET youths, NEET youths had 34% higher negative symptoms scores, longer prodromes (median of 52 weeks vs. 24 weeks), and were more often continuously ill after their first psychiatric change until the onset of psychosis (62% vs. 45%). Both groups had similar premorbid adjustment scores until late adolescence when scores were significantly worse for NEET youths. Accounting for other predictors, NEET youths had 23% longer DUPs on average, despite having made more help-seeking attempts.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite being more narrowly defined, NEET status was thrice as prevalent in our sample as in the Canadian population. The NEET group followed a distinct trajectory of persistent symptoms and functional decline before presenting with a psychotic disorder. The systemic delays that NEET youths encountered indicate a need for better-targeted early identification efforts.

Fifteen years on - early intervention for a new generation

Early intervention for psychosis (EIP) is a model of service delivery that aims to support young people with first-episode psychosis by providing the best available treatments, supporting recovery and preventing relapse. In this editorial, we review the evidence for EIP, how the model has developed since its inclusion in the NHS policy implementation guideline for mental health in 2001, challenges and areas of ongoing debate, and future development.