Jean Addington1, Donald Addington. 1. Department of Psychiatry, Alberta Centennial Mental Health Research Chair, Calgary, Alberta. jmadding@ucalgary.ca
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Studies defining the course and outcome of people experiencing their first episode psychosis (FEP) generally report an improvement in symptoms and functioning. Little is known about the follow-up arrangements offered to patients when their time in a FEP comes to an end. METHOD: Our study focuses on a sample of FEP patients (n = 292) who were followed for up to 3 years in a multi-element specialized FEP service. RESULTS: Improvement in positive symptoms and social functioning, but not negative symptoms, was observed in this sample both for people who completed 3 years in the program and for those who left early. About 40% were referred to specialized mental health services, whereas 24% were followed by their family physician. Patients who were followed by family physicians had decreased symptoms and improved functioning. CONCLUSION: Most patients treated in an early psychosis program will need follow-up, the largest group will require specialized mental health services in the community, but a significant group can be followed by family physicians.
OBJECTIVE: Studies defining the course and outcome of people experiencing their first episode psychosis (FEP) generally report an improvement in symptoms and functioning. Little is known about the follow-up arrangements offered to patients when their time in a FEP comes to an end. METHOD: Our study focuses on a sample of FEP patients (n = 292) who were followed for up to 3 years in a multi-element specialized FEP service. RESULTS: Improvement in positive symptoms and social functioning, but not negative symptoms, was observed in this sample both for people who completed 3 years in the program and for those who left early. About 40% were referred to specialized mental health services, whereas 24% were followed by their family physician. Patients who were followed by family physicians had decreased symptoms and improved functioning. CONCLUSION: Most patients treated in an early psychosis program will need follow-up, the largest group will require specialized mental health services in the community, but a significant group can be followed by family physicians.
Authors: Kyleigh E Schraeder; Melanie Barwick; John Cairney; Jeff Carter; Paul Kurdyak; Richard W J Neufeld; Shannon L Stewart; Jeff St Pierre; Juliana Tobon; Evelyn Vingilis; Gregory Zaric; Graham J Reid Journal: J Can Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry Date: 2021-02-01
Authors: Kyleigh Schraeder; Brooke Allemang; Ashley N Felske; Cathie M Scott; Kerry A McBrien; Gina Dimitropoulos; Susan Samuel Journal: J Prim Care Community Health Date: 2022 Jan-Dec