A Brief Literature Review of Racial Differences in Psychosis Interventions

Cameron Wu (1), Heather Thibeau (2), Emily He (3)

1. University of California, Santa Cruz
2. Boston Medical Center
3. Clark University

Abstract

Background: Psychosis research has had recent advances in understanding risk factors for psychosis development and treatment engagement issues (e.g. long duration of untreated psychosis). However, disparities between racial groups in psychosis treatment uptake and in disengagement have suggested inadequate support to minority groups. Therefore, examining how treatment occurs in other countries in a post-COVID world can yield more information on racial disparities and potential ways to provide more equitable treatment.

Method: Medical and psychology databases (e.g. PubMED, PsychINFO) were searched for peer-reviewed articles on psychosis treatment and care. Articles selected for review were recently published (2018-2022) and included analyses of social determinants (e.g. racial and ethnic minority status, immigrant generational status).

Results: The literature suggests that experience of adversity can moderate the relationship between immigrant generational status and psychosis treatment engagement. There were relatively few investigations of disparities by racial and ethnic minority status and immigrant generational status in U.S. samples. Disparities in race do appear to be less significant in certain countries, where healthcare is less privatized and thus, more equitable.

Conclusion: By engaging with institutions outside of Massachusetts in examining the causes of racial disparities in psychosis treatment disengagement, a more equitable early intervention program can be implemented into the Early Intervention Roadmap for Psychosis in Massachusetts, promoting further international collaboration in tackling the disparity in psychosis treatment amongst racial groups.