A recent study co-led by Associate Professor Kristin Cleverley from the Lawrence Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing sheds light on the prevalence of Psychosis Spectrum Symptoms (PSS) in youth seeking mental health services. The findings suggest that a significant proportion of young individuals accessing these services exhibit symptoms associated with the Psychosis Spectrum.
Analyzing data from 417 participants aged 11-24, the study revealed that 50 percent met the threshold for Psychosis Spectrum Symptoms, a figure higher than anticipated. This suggests a substantial number of children with such symptoms are utilizing mental health services.
Cleverley, also the CAMH Chair in Mental Health Nursing Research, highlights the study’s novelty in assessing early indicators that may predict a higher risk of developing Psychosis Spectrum Disorder. The research aims to explore the potential for earlier interventions to be more effective in managing these symptoms.
Psychosis Spectrum Disorder is known for its severe impact, often leading to cognitive impairment, long-term disability, and elevated rates of suicide compared to other mental illnesses. Even in the absence of a formal diagnosis, Psychosis Spectrum Symptoms can significantly impact the well-being of young individuals.
Part of the Toronto Adolescent and Youth (TAY) Cohort Study, this research is one of three projects set to follow 1500 youth over five years. The cohort study aims to enhance understanding of youth seeking mental health treatment, track changes in mental health symptoms and functioning over time, and identify early predictors of psychosis spectrum disorder.
This study’s distinctive approach involves collaboration with patients, caregivers, and extensive engagement from clinicians. The TAY Cohort Study introduces a patient-facing dashboard providing youth with access to their research results, seamlessly integrated into their clinical records.
Cleverley emphasizes the study’s integration into clinical practice, where research assessments can immediately inform decisions about interventions or services. With follow-ups every six months, the longitudinal study will offer insights into whether symptoms in these youth become chronic or episodic, and how these changes correlate with developmental milestones, environmental stressors, or alterations to mental health services.
Cleverley concludes, stating, “Our goal with this research is really to characterize this population better so that we can identify new strategies that will complement existing strategies for early identification of youth at risk of psychosis,” emphasizing the opportunity for further research to enhance youth mental health outcomes.