Understanding Psychosis: Basics and Beyond

Speaker: Hyun Jung Kim, MD

In the United States, approximately 100,000 adolescents and young adults develop a first episode of psychosis each year. Early identification and intervention of psychosis have become an international priority, which involves delivering person-centered coordinated specialty care (CSC) within the critical window during the early stage of illness. Early intervention can decrease the duration of untreated psychosis (DUP), which has been identified as one of the most vital indicators for reducing the impact of psychosis and improving clinical and functional outcomes. Unfortunately, DUP remains unacceptably prolonged in the US, partially due to limited psychosis literacy and deeply rooted stigma in our society. This presentation aims to provide an overview of the basics of psychosis, address common myths, discuss the importance of early intervention, and review clinical guidelines and relevant resources.