A recent study conducted by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) revealed that almost 75% of young individuals diagnosed with a psychotic disorder had utilized mental health services within three years before their official diagnosis. This study, titled “Mental Health Service Use Before First Diagnosis of a Psychotic Disorder,” published in JAMA Psychiatry, sheds light on the importance of early detection and intervention.
The study, one of the largest of its kind, suggests that youth with a psychotic disorder are significantly more likely to have had previous mental health-related hospital admissions and emergency department visits. They are also more likely to have a history of substance use disorder compared to those diagnosed with a mood disorder.
Dr. Nicole Kozloff, Co-Director of the Slaight Family Centre for Youth in Transition at CAMH, highlights the significance of these findings in identifying individuals at a higher risk for developing psychotic disorders. The results underscore the need for further research to focus on early intervention in the progression of psychotic illnesses.
Using data from ICES, the researchers examined the mental health service utilization of individuals aged 15-29 in Ontario who were later diagnosed with a psychotic disorder. By studying over 10,000 individuals with a first-time psychotic disorder diagnosis, the researchers compared them with individuals diagnosed with mood disorders.
Dr. Aristotle Voineskos, Vice President of Research at CAMH, emphasizes that individuals at risk for psychosis may not be easily recognizable, and effective treatment of underlying conditions could potentially alter the risk of developing psychotic disorders.
These initial findings have led to the initiation of the Toronto Adolescent & Youth (TAY) Cohort Study at CAMH. This long-term study aims to track 1,500 children and youth seeking mental health services to better understand their risk factors for psychosis and develop strategies for early intervention.
This research aligns with CAMH’s strategic plan, Get Upstream, which focuses on early identification of mental health issues, prevention strategies, and ensuring timely access to quality care. CAMH is at the forefront of research and clinical care for youth facing psychosis, offering specialized programs like outpatient early psychosis intervention, clinical high-risk programs, and inpatient early psychosis units catering to individuals aged 14 to 29 years old.
