Perspectives of Carers on the Physical Health of Young People with Early Psychosis

The beginning of poor physical health trajectory for young people with early psychosis is found to occur prior to the onset of psychosis. Promotion of physical health requires sustainable positive health behaviour change. This study is aimed at exploring the views of carers on the physical health of young people with early psychosis, the physical health care young people receive and carers' perspectives on important elements in promoting sustainable positive lifestyle changes. The outcome of this study will help inform the development of a co-designed lifestyle intervention for young people with early psychosis. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 carers using an exploratory descriptive approach. Three main themes were identified using thematic analysis: (i) Physical health – what makes them worry and seek help; (ii) Disconnected physical health care; (iii) Key to sustainability – "Nothing succeeds like success". Carers are at the forefront of physical health promotion for young people. The findings of this study emphasised that a lifestyle intervention designed for young people should be tailored to the needs and preferences of not only young people but also their carers, with incorporation of elements of health literacy, psychosocial wellbeing and self-determination in the drive for sustainable positive health behaviour change.