Causal attributions, pathway to care and clinical features of first-episode psychosis: A South African perspective
Date
2011
Authors
Burns J.K.
Jhazbhay K.
Emsley R.A.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
Background: Causal belief systems and help-seeking practices may impact on pathway to care and features of first-episode psychosis (FEP) that have prognostic value. This is particularly relevant in South Africa where many people subscribe to traditional belief systems and consult traditional healers. Aim: To evaluate the relationship between causal attributions and pathway to care and features of FEP that have prognostic value. Method: We tested associations between causal attributions and pathway to care and duration of untreated psychosis (DUP), age of onset, PANSS-rated positive, negative and general symptoms and depressive symptoms (Calgary Depression Scale) in a sample of 54 FEP patients. Results: Spiritual attribution of cause (49% of patients) was associated with long DUP, while consultation with a traditional healer (39% of patients) was associated with long DUP and high negative symptoms. Only 19% had consulted a psychiatrist. Seventy nine per cent (79%) were referred to hospital by family, police were involved in 44% of admissions, and 81% were admitted involuntarily. Conclusions: Spiritual attributions of cause and previous consultation with traditional healers may delay entry to psychiatric care and thereby negatively impact on prognosis of FEP. This highlights the importance of mental health education and developing a positive collaborative relationship with traditional healers, especially in low- and middle-income countries. © The Author(s) 2010.
Description
Keywords
causal attributions, duration of untreated psychosis, first-episode psychosis, prognosis, traditional healers
Citation
International Journal of Social Psychiatry
57
5
http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-80052603012&partnerID=40&md5=74e1042fb7f9ba29e57c90947ef7e106
57
5
http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-80052603012&partnerID=40&md5=74e1042fb7f9ba29e57c90947ef7e106