A Cross Sectional Study of Factors Influencing Duration of Untreated Psychosis in a Tertiary Mental Health Care Institute

Abstract

Background-There are several factors affecting duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) which may affect the long term prognosis of the patient's illness? Understanding them will help us in early intervention and management at all levels of illness.

Aim: To study factors influencing duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) in a tertiary care centre.

Methods: Sample collected from inpatients of a tertiary care psychiatric hospital in a purposive way. Socio demographic and illness factors were analysed and correlated with DUP statistically.

Results: There was a predominance of males (52%); younger age (16-25 years)-40%; illiterates-40%; Hindus-86%; rural background-80%. Majority (92%) belonged to low economic status; 62% belonged to nuclear families and 60% were married. However there was no significant difference between the sociodemographic factors when compared with DUP except for background being rural or urban area. Family history of mental illness was present in 10%; Schizophrenia and other psychosis constituted 78 % . Predominant symptom danger to others was seen in 40%, suicidal risk in 16% and lack of motivation in 6 %. 80% patients had no associated substance abuse. Majority of the patients were brought by parents (68%) and by police in 26% cases. There was no statistically significant difference when compared with DUP in all the factors above. Age of onset of illness was 52% in below 25 years age group; 26 % in 26-35 years group; 12 % in 36-45 years and 10 % in 46 years and above group. There was statistically significant difference when compared with DUP.

Conclusion: Age of onset of psychosis was the only illness factor and background being rural or urban was associated with DUP in a statistically significant way; others not being significant.

Limitations: Study was done in a tertiary care setup with a small sample which is not representative of the whole population

Future Directions: Need to increase awareness about mental illness in the public with improving general practitioner's ability to identify symptoms for early diagnosis.