7. Barriers to Early Intervention

Despite the effectiveness of early intervention, the research indicates that, on average, individuals will have experienced psychosis for 52 - 114 weeks (Loebel et al., 1992; Larsen et al., 1996) prior to initial treatment. Reasons for this delay may include:
Social Aspects

1. Stigma.
2. Many people experiencing a first episode of psychosis are employed or in school and may fear disruption in these aspects of their lives.
3. Poor recognition of illness by others.

Illness Variables

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1. Paranoia or other symptoms
2. Poor insight
3. Decline in cognitive functioning, including decreasing ability to concentrate and remember
4. Impaired judgment.

Fear of the Unknown

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1. Fear of being admitted to a psychiatric facility.
2. Perception that psychosis is a "life sentence."

System Failures

1. Lack of resources.
2. Poorly defined referral paths.
3. "Wait and see" approach.