Understanding the social costs of psychosis: The experience of adults affected by psychosis identified within the second Australian national survey of psychosis

Abstract

Background: Social inclusion is a key priority of the Fourth National Mental Health Plan for Australia (20092014), with strong evidence for its protective impact on mental health. Social integration has been associated with enhanced wellbeing for people with mental illnesses such as psychosis. Objective: To explore the impact of psychosis on an individuals social and community participation. Method: The second Australian national survey of psychosis was conducted across seven Australian sites. Semi-structured interviews with adults living with psychosis assessed mental health status, social and role functioning, life satisfaction and future goals. The cohort comprised 1825 adults with a psyc..