Early Talking Therapy Intervention to Lower Psychosis Risk

Recent research highlights the potential of early intervention with talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), to significantly reduce the risk of developing psychosis among individuals presenting symptoms of anxiety and depression. A study conducted by the University of Southampton suggests that simple modifications to existing CBT protocols could enhance their effectiveness in identifying and addressing early psychotic experiences.

Currently, NHS-delivered talking therapies serve approximately 1.2 million patients annually, primarily targeting anxiety and depression. By introducing a few targeted questions at the beginning of therapy sessions, clinicians can better detect low-level psychotic symptoms—such as hearing voices, seeing things, paranoia, or grandiosity—which are often overlooked due to lack of training or stigma.

Professor Katherine Newman-Taylor, a leading clinical psychologist, explained that many patients with anxiety or depression also experience subtle psychotic-like symptoms that go unnoticed. When left unaddressed, these symptoms can persist and interfere with recovery. The study indicates that with minimal adjustments, CBT can enable clinicians to recognize these early signs and help patients develop skills to manage both their primary symptoms and psychotic experiences.

Psychosis affects about 1 in 100 people and encompasses a range of symptoms including hallucinations and delusional beliefs. It often remains untreated for years because individuals might not recognize help-seeking as necessary, or due to stigma. Early intervention is crucial since it can prevent these experiences from developing into more severe, disabling psychotic disorders.

The feasibility study involved NHS trusts across Hampshire, demonstrating that adapted CBT is both acceptable to patients and potentially beneficial in improving outcomes related to anxiety, depression, and psychosis risk. Given that many individuals seeking therapy face complex issues and societal stigma, early detection and intervention could be instrumental in preventing the progression of psychosis.

Researchers are now planning a comprehensive trial to further evaluate this approach, with the hope of integrating it into standard mental health services to address psychosis more effectively at early stages.