PACE: a specialised service for young people at risk of psychotic disorders

Abstract

Intervention in the prodromal phase of schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders may prevent or delay the onset of these disorders, or reduce the severity of the psychosis. Identifying the schizophrenia prodrome is difficult, however, because of its non-specific symptoms and the wide symptom variability between individuals. Over the past 15 years, we have investigated the schizophrenia prodrome and developed criteria for detecting people suspected of experiencing a prodromal phase (ie, they are thought to be at imminent risk of onset of a psychotic disorder). About 35% of those meeting our criteria have developed a psychotic disorder within 12 months. We have established a clinical servi..