Incidence of treated first-episode psychosis amongst Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal youth in the Top End of the Northern Territory,Australia

Abstract

Objectives

This study aims to estimate the incidence rate of first episode of psychosis (FEP) in the Top End of the Northern Territory (NT), exploring how rates vary by age, sex, Aboriginal status and remoteness.

Method

Youths (ages 15–24) presenting with FEP to the two specialist mental health services in the Top End were identified through audit of the electronic health records between 2014–2018. Population demographic data were collected from the 2016 Australian National Census. Statistical analysis estimated variation in incidence rates by age, sex, Aboriginal status and remoteness.

Results

A total of 236 youths with FEP were included in the study. The overall incidence rate was 174 per 100,000 person-years. Rates were very high in the Aboriginal (331 per 100,000 person-years) and remote populations (308 per 100,000 person-years), and lower in the non-Aboriginal population (85 per 100,000 person-years).

Conclusion

This study shows high rates of FEP in young people in the Top End, attributable to very high rates in the Aboriginal population, many of whom live in remote areas. Resources should be allocated to support this high-risk group.