Depressive symptomatology in the first-episode schizophrenia spectrum disorders OPTiMiSE trial: prevalence, correlates, symptom progression and outcomes

Numerous aspects of depressive symptomatology in first-episode schizophrenia spectrum disorders (FES) remain unclear. Based on data from the FES OPTiMiSE trial, we estimated the prevalence of depression (Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia (CDSS) total score ≥7) at baseline ( n = 122, 27.5%) and at weeks 4 ( n = 57, 15.9%) and 10 ( n = 14, 21.5%). Baseline depression was cross-sectionally associated with more severe extrapyramidal symptoms ( p = 0.036) and poorer subjective wellbeing ( p < 0.001). At week 4, baseline depression was linked to poorer psychosocial functioning ( p < 0.001) and subjective wellbeing ( p < 0.001). At week 10, baseline depression was associated with psychosis non-remission ( p = 0.042) and worse subjective wellbeing ( p = 0.011). There was a significant correlation between decrease in CDSS and PANSS total scores ( p < 0.001) at weeks 4 and 10. Depressive symptomatology in the FES OPTiMiSE trial was prevalent and associated with poorer objectively- and subjectively-measured outcomes over a 10-week follow-up. Early intervention for depression may improve outcomes in FES.