Master of and Postgraduate Diploma in Psychological Medicine (Psychosis Studies)
PSYS6007
Early intervention for psychosis (6 credits)
General concepts of indicated and preventative interventions in medicine will be introduced. The importance of a phase specific approach is highlighted with reference to distinctive cost benefit considerations in screening and intervention for different phases of a disorder. Principles of Early Intervention for Psychosis will be discussed; key concepts such as the critical period, duration of untreated psychosis, early detection, at risk mental state, phase specific intervention, and prodrome intervention will be discussed. The rationale behind each of these approaches will be discussed. Factors affecting duration of untreated psychosis and pathway to care will be explored, leading to a consideration of potentially modifiable factors. Specific implementation examples will be illustrated by case studies of Hong Kong and International early psychosis projects. Effectiveness in achieving these aims will be considered by evidence based empirical data.
Course coordinators: Prof Sherry KW Chan