Internalised stereotypes across ultra-high risk of psychosis and psychosis populations

Internalised stigma is associated with negative psychological and social outcomes for people with psychosis. Research has shown stigma can impact on wellbeing and increase the risk of transition for people at risk of developing psychosis. There is limited knowledge regarding how internalised stigma differs across ultra-high risk of psychosis and psychosis populations. Using a cross sectional analysis, people at risk of psychosis (n = 238), with a first episode of psychosis (n = 39), and with recurrent episodes of psychosis (n = 27) were compared on a measure of internalised stigma. The strength of relationship between internalised stigma and emotional dysfunction was compared between the groups. Analysis of covariance revealed no differences between the three groups on level of internalised stereotypes or in the strength of relationship between internalised stereotypes and emotional dysfunction. For both groups greater levels of internalised stigma was associated with greater levels of anxiety and depression. Findings suggest that internalised stigma is equally problematic for people who meet criteria for being at risk as those who have established psychosis. Recommendations for educational campaigns which address stigma are made. Services which work with people at risk of psychosis and with psychosis should adopt optimistic, recovery-orientated approaches to minimise stereotype agreement.