Attenuated Psychosis Syndromes Among Brazilian Youth and Young Adults: Early Identification and Intervention

Abstract

Research in early stages of mental disorders has been consistently increasing in Brazil. The main focus thus far has been in first episode psychosis (FEP) individuals. So far, clinical assistance for early stage psychosis is markedly insufficient in Brazil. Specialized centers are still lacking, only existing as part of university programs, and are not integrated with the public health system. Overall, inadequate mental health literacy among the general population and basic healthcare professionals is an important obstacle to early recognition and prevention. Strengthening alliances between the education and the health system seems to be an important path to improve knowledge, identification, and referrals. Currently, Program of Recognition and Intervention in At-Risk Mental State individuals (PRISMA) is collaborating with an international consortium—EU-GEI. In addition, PRISMA has built an experienced team of research professionals in different areas. Since refining the Attenuated Psychosis Syndromes criteria to make them more specific is imperative both regarding inclusion criteria and prognosis, a multimodal approach including genetic profile, biomarkers for neuroplasticity, neuroimaging, and sleep circadian rhythm assessments may prove to be a promising path. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved)