Recent substance use among clients with early psychosis and the potential to graduate from New Journeys

Abstract

Aim: This study examined the relationship between recent substance use prior to intake and program graduation among young adults with early psychosis enrolled in coordinated specialty care. Methods: Participants (N = 248) were from New Journeys, a network of coordinated specialty care programs in Washington State. Recent (i.e., past 30 days) alcohol, cannabis, and other substance use was collected at intake and process data (e.g., contact) was collected by clinicians across a 2-year period. Results: At intake, 32% of participants reported alcohol use only, 26% cannabis use only, and 15% both alcohol and cannabis use. Participants who reported alcohol use only (p =.02), cannabis use only (p =.03), and any substance use (p =.02) had significantly lower chances of graduating from coordinated specialty care than individuals who do not use substances. Conclusions: Unlike prior work, recent substance use influences clients' potential to graduate from New Journeys. Additional focus on the implementation of substance use treatment, with an emphasis on alcohol use, in coordinated specialty care programs is needed improve program completion rates.