Engagement at entry to an early intervention service for first episode psychosis: an exploratory study of young people and caregivers

Abstract

Early intervention services play a crucial role in providing treatment for young people experiencing a first episode psychosis. However, on average, 30 per cent of young people disengage from treatment, which may result in untreated symptoms, difficulty returning to school or work and relationship breakdowns. This qualitative study aimed to understand the help-seeking experiences and initial engagement with an early intervention service. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine young people and five caregivers, focussing on engagement in the first eight weeks of treatment. Themes were identified using thematic analysis. Key findings were that participants entered the early interve..