Psychosocial Acute Treatment in Early-Episode Schizophrenia Disorders

Bibliographic Data

ID12384970
AuthorsJohn R Bola (0000-0001-5507-8559, University of Southern California, corresponding author)
Year2006
Volume16
Issue3
Pages263-275
Publication date2006-05-01
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueResearch on Social Work Practice (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1049-7315 • E-ISSN: 1552-7581
PublisherSAGE Publishing (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/1049731505284447
OpenAlexW2049111312
LanguageEN
References cited85

Objective: This article reviews evidence on the treatment of early episode schizophrenia spectrum disorders that contradicts, in some cases, the American Psychiatric Association’s generic recommendation of antipsychotic medication treatment for at least a year. Method: Evidence on lack of diagnostic validity, absence of demonstrated long-term benefit from initial antipsychotic treatment, and existence of a large subgroup of early episode clients that may be successfully treated without antipsychotic medications is reviewed. Results: A time-limited initial trial of psychosocial intervention without antipsychotics may benefit many clients, especially by reducing long-term medication dependence and side effect exposure. Evidence suggests this can be done without substantial risk to those later found to need medications. A risk-benefit comparison of current practice to two alternate treatment protocols is presented. Conclusions: Developing and evaluating a psychosocial intervention for early episode psychosis presents a unique opportunity for social work to take leadership in acute mental health treatment

Antipsychotic · Intervention (counseling · Mental health · Psychiatry · Psychosis · Psychosocial · Schizophrenia (object-oriented programming · Clinical Psychology · Medicine · Mental Health and Patient Involvement · Mental Health and Psychiatry · Psychology · Schizophrenia research and treatment

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