Investigating trajectories of social recovery in individualswith first-episode psychosis: A latent class growth analysis

BackgroundSocial disability is a hallmark of severe mental illness yet individualdifferences and factors predicting outcome are largely unknown.AimTo explore trajectories and predictors of social recovery following afirst episode of psychosis (FEP).MethodA sample of 764 individuals with FEP were assessed on entry into earlyintervention in psychosis (EIP) services and followed up over 12 months.Social recovery profiles were examined using latent class growthanalysis.ResultsThree types of social recovery profile were identified: Low Stable (66%),Moderate-Increasing (27%), and High-Decreasing (7%). Poor social recoverywas predicted by male gender, ethnic minority status, younger age atonset of psychosis, increased negative symptoms, and poor premorbidadjustment.ConclusionsSocial disability is prevalent in FEP, although distinct recoveryprofiles are evident. Where social disability is present on entry intoEIP services it can remain stable, highlighting a need for targetedintervention.