An RCT of early intervention in psychosis: Croydon Outreach and Assertive Support Team (COAST).

Despite considerable interest in early intervention in psychosis, the evidence base for its effectiveness is sparse. We aimed to evaluate a new service in South London, UK, Croydon Outreach and Assertive Support Team (COAST) using a randomised controlled trial (RCT) during its first year. Referrals were taken from local adult community mental health teams of those with documented first service contact in the last 5 years and a diagnosis of any functional psychosis. Those who consented (N = 59) were randomised to COAST or treatment as usual (TAU). COAST offered a range of interventions including optimum atypical medication, psychological interventions (individual cognitive behavioural therapy and family intervention if appropriate) and a range of vocational and welfare help according to need. Whole team training was used to be able to offer these kinds of interventions. Outcomes were evaluated at baseline, 6 mos and 9 mos on a range of standardised clinical and social measures. Overall both COAST and TAU clients improved over time, but there were no significant improvements for COAST clients; a lack of significant results in the time x treatment interaction. There was a trend for COAST carers' quality of life to increase. Bed days were also less in COAST, but not significantly so. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)