This handbook examines state-of-the-art research and clinical findings on attenuated psychosis syndrome (APS) across the globe. It addresses symptoms, assessment methods, and treatment approaches as they differ and converge across countries and cultures. The handbook explores how the illness impairs many aspects of daily functioning, with high rates of suicide and a reduced life span. It details how early detection is critical and may greatly reduce the public health burden of the illness. Chapters describe the early identification and intervention efforts that are currently underway across the world. The book offers international findings from prominent researchers, elaborating culturally relevant illness symptoms, help-seeking behaviors, and assessment and intervention strategies. In addition, chapters illustrate wide variations in symptom expression and experience, reinforcing the necessity of culturally attuned practice in patient-centered care. The book concludes by examiningthe implications - challenges and opportunities - for future research and clinical practices from an international perspective.
Topics featured in the Handbook include:
- Barriers to service in low-resourced countries.
- The role of traditional or culturally acceptable care in developing early intervention models.
- The reliability and validity of tools for assessing and identifying APS.
- Possible medical diagnoses that can present with APS symptoms and how to differentiate these conditions from APS.
