Just Do You for Psychosis
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
Negative experiences with healthcare prior to referral to early intervention services for psychosis (EIS) have been linked to poor engagement and clinical outcomes. Recent research indicates that young adults who come to EIS services thru emergency departments, urgent care, or inpatient services have significantly greater rates of future use of these services as well as more negative perceptions of EIS and diminished engagement in treatment compared to young adults referred to EIS by other pathways. These findings suggest a need for additional support to be provided to EIS patients, especially those with prior negative healthcare experiences, to maximize treatment engagement and outcomes. A recent USA-based trial of a brief intervention addressing barriers to disengagement (Just Do You), including prior negative healthcare experiences, showed promise in improving engagement and recovery. This project seeks to adapt and evaluate the Just Do You intervention to a young adult early psychosis population in Nova Scotia. The investigators aim to recruit young adults from the Nova Scotia Early Psychosis Program to engage in 2 psychotherapy/psychoeducation sessions co-led by a clinician and peer support worker. Following the intervention, the investigators will measure improvements in participants' engagement and recovery to determine the effectiveness of the program. Outcomes between participants with negative prior healthcare experiences and those without will be compared to assess differential impact of the intervention for high-risk sub-groups. This project has the potential to improve patients' engagement in EIS care and enhance recovery outcomes for young adults.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It is best to consult with the trial coordinators or your healthcare provider for guidance.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Just Do You for psychosis?
How is the 'Just Do You' treatment for psychosis different from other treatments?
The 'Just Do You' treatment for psychosis may focus on early detection and intervention, particularly in individuals with familial risk or early symptoms, which can help prevent or delay the onset of full psychosis. This approach is unique as it emphasizes monitoring and preventive interventions during the prodromal phase (early stage before full symptoms develop), unlike standard treatments that often address symptoms after they fully manifest.678910
Research Team
Phil Tibbo, MD
Principal Investigator
Nova Scotia Health Authority
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for young adults experiencing psychosis who are part of the Nova Scotia Early Psychosis Program. It's especially aimed at those with negative prior healthcare experiences. Participants should be willing to attend two psychotherapy/psychoeducation sessions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Engagement Intervention
Participants receive a brief 2-module engagement focused psychotherapeutic orientation co-delivered by a mental health clinician and a peer support worker.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for improvements in engagement and recovery, with assessments at multiple intervals.
Long-term Monitoring
Monitoring of administrative health outcomes such as missed appointments and emergency visits.
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Just Do You
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Nova Scotia Health Authority
Lead Sponsor
Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre
Collaborator