Incidences of first-episode psychosis are higher in people with neurodivergent conditions, such as autism and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to new research.
The study, published in BJPsych Bulletin, found that 37.7% of those with first-episode psychosis were likely neurodivergent, significantly higher than the previously estimated 9%, highlighting an urgent need to reassess how these conditions are identified and managed within mental health services.
First-episode psychosis refers to the first occurrence of psychotic symptoms, including hallucinations, delusions, and disorganised thinking, where individuals can experience a break from reality. It can significantly disrupt daily life and cause distress. Early intervention is essential to improve outcomes, reduce symptom severity and prevent relapse.
The researchers from Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS), London South Bank University (LSBU) and Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (SPFT) conducted a detailed evaluation of 509 individuals and found that neurodivergent individuals utilised urgent mental health services more frequently and experienced longer hospital stays compared with their non-neurodivergent counterparts.
Neurodivergent individuals were also found to spend more than twice as long in mental health hospitals at a time, underscoring the greater burden they face within the mental health care system.
Dr Jessica Eccles, Reader in Brain-Body Medicine at BSMS, Neurodevelopmental Psychiatrist and senior author on the study said: “This research emphasises the need for enhanced screening and early assessment of neurodevelopmental traits in individuals experiencing first-episode psychosis.
“Early intervention is critical to optimise psychosis management, reduce hospitalisation time and improve long-term mental health outcomes and care for neurodivergent individuals.”
