Perspectives of Young People with Early Psychosis on Physical Health

Young people experiencing early psychosis including those at ultra-high risk of psychosis and those with an at-risk mental state, are found to have a higher risk of developing preventable physical health conditions. Understanding how psychosocial wellbeing and physical health literacy play a role in adopting positive health behaviour change is paramount in promoting physical health outcomes in early psychosis. The aim of this study was to explore the perspectives of young people with early psychosis on physical health, their experience of accessing physical health care, and ways to promote positive health behaviour change. This study utilised an exploratory descriptive qualitative approach. Participants were recruited through a metropolitan specialised youth early psychosis program that provides specialised support and care to young people with early psychosis. Ten young people aged between 16 and 25 years, who were clients of the early psychosis program, participated in semi-structured interviews individually. Three main themes were identified using reflexive thematic analysis: (i) How I view my physical health, (ii) The journey of accessing physical health care, and (iii) Adoption of positive health behaviour change. This study highlighted that young people are worried about changes in their physical health, with a strong desire to improve their wellbeing. A number of psychosocial factors were identified in this study as hindering their ability to adopt positive health behaviour change, complicated by limited physical health literacy and barriers to accessing physical health resources and care within mental health services. Addressing these factors is fundamental in driving sustainable positive health behaviour change.