https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-rss/?keywordId=1807&orgId=109506&title=Blog A selection of the latest research, academic, and other newsworthy developments at Specialized Treatment for Early Psychosis (STEP) Program en-us Copyright 2026 Yale School of Medicine Fri, 15 May 2026 06:34:12 Z https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/psychosis-after-cannabis-legalization/ https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/psychosis-after-cannabis-legalization/ A new study from the STEP Program in Connecticut found that cannabis use became more severe among individuals entering care for first-episode psychosis after legalization, with increases in daily and solitary use. The findings underscore the importance of monitoring, education, and prevention, especially for adolescents and those at risk for psychosis. Sun, 15 Feb 2026 05:00:00 Z https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/on-the-other-side-of-the-phone-step/ https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/on-the-other-side-of-the-phone-step/ From clinicians coordinating care to families searching for answers, this first-person reflection from one of STEP’s Early Detection and Assessment Coordinator offers a rare look at what it means to be the voice on the other side of the phone, and why timely, compassionate access to early psychosis care matters. Fri, 13 Feb 2026 05:00:00 Z https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/step-learning-collaborative-2025-review/ https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/step-learning-collaborative-2025-review/ 2025 marked a major year of growth, collaboration, and measurable progress for the STEP Learning Collaborative (STEP LC), Connecticut’s statewide learning health system for early psychosis. As we reflect on the second year of implementation since launching in February 2024, we see both expanding reach and deepening engagement across clinical, educational, community, and systems-level workstreams. In this post, we share key impacts from 2025, alongside broader program activities that shaped the continued development of a coordinated, statewide approach to early psychosis care in Connecticut. Fri, 12 Dec 2025 14:00:00 Z https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/communication-strategies-psychosis/ https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/communication-strategies-psychosis/ Learn practical strategies for families to support young people during a first episode of psychosis. Tips for listening, validating, and communicating safely. Mon, 22 Sep 2025 04:00:00 Z https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/public-health-forum-early-psychosis-care/ https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/public-health-forum-early-psychosis-care/ Leaders from across Connecticut gathered at the Legislative Office Building to spotlight the state’s groundbreaking work in expanding care for young people experiencing early psychosis. The forum, convened by Senator Saud Anwar, Co-Chair of the Public Health Committee, focused on the release of the first annual report from the STEP Learning Collaborative Connecticut’s statewide learning health system for recent-onset schizophrenia. Thu, 31 Jul 2025 18:00:00 Z https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/world-schizophrenia-day-understanding-psychosis-and-how-to-help/ https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/world-schizophrenia-day-understanding-psychosis-and-how-to-help/ May 24th is World Schizophrenia Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about schizophrenia. It encourages people to learn about the signs and symptoms, understand the impact on individuals and their families, and explore how early intervention can lead to better outcomes. Tue, 20 May 2025 04:00:00 Z https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/understanding-social-disconnect-in-psychosis-a-new-fnirs-study-at-yale/ https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/understanding-social-disconnect-in-psychosis-a-new-fnirs-study-at-yale/ Psychosis often leads to social withdrawal, isolation, and difficulty forming relationships. Understanding the neural mechanisms behind social disconnection can help researchers develop therapies that address not just the symptoms of psychosis, but also the profound social challenges that come with it. This research marks a significant step toward more empathetic, neuroscience-informed care for individuals living with psychosis. Mon, 19 May 2025 11:00:00 Z https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/supporting-youth-with-psychosis-partnering-with-first-responders-for-better-outcomes/ https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/supporting-youth-with-psychosis-partnering-with-first-responders-for-better-outcomes/ Through growing partnerships with First Responders such as police, mobile crisis teams, 211/988 responders, and jail diversion—the STEP Learning Collaborative remains committed to building a comprehensive support network for young individuals experiencing psychosis. These efforts aim to foster early intervention, compassionate response, and better recovery outcomes. Fri, 09 May 2025 04:00:00 Z https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/effective-intervention-for-mental-health-crisis-in-the-community/ https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/effective-intervention-for-mental-health-crisis-in-the-community/ Understanding how to identify a mental health crisis and intervene effectively is crucial for community safety and well-being, including for individuals experiencing psychosis. This article provides essential information on responding to mental health crises with compassion and efficiency. Fri, 09 May 2025 04:00:00 Z https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/the-relationship-between-insight-and-suicide-risk-in-early-psychosis-key-findings-from-our-latest-study/ https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/the-relationship-between-insight-and-suicide-risk-in-early-psychosis-key-findings-from-our-latest-study/ Our latest research explores the intricate relationships between clinical awareness (commonly referred to as “insight”), depression, and suicidality. Wed, 08 Jan 2025 05:00:00 Z https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/understanding-depression-and-suicide-in-early-psychosis-what-you-need-to-know/ https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/understanding-depression-and-suicide-in-early-psychosis-what-you-need-to-know/ Experiencing a first episode of psychosis (FEP) an be overwhelming and frightening. However, what many don’t realize is that depression often accompanies early psychosis. In fact, individuals with FEP frequently grapple with deep sadness, hopelessness, and even suicidal thoughts. Therefore, depression in FEP isn’t just a secondary issue—it’s a serious and life-threatening concern that demands immediate attention. Wed, 13 Nov 2024 05:00:00 Z https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/caring-for-a-loved-one-with-psychosis-a-guide-for-parents-and-caregivers/ https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/caring-for-a-loved-one-with-psychosis-a-guide-for-parents-and-caregivers/ Caring for a loved one with psychosis brings emotional, social, and financial challenges but can also be profoundly meaningful. Family caregivers play a key role in supporting recovery while often facing significant stress and uncertainty. This guide provides practical advice to help caregivers manage their responsibilities and protect their own well-being. Fri, 01 Nov 2024 04:00:00 Z https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/supporting-young-people-with-psychosis-in-school-how-to-help-them-succeed/ https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/supporting-young-people-with-psychosis-in-school-how-to-help-them-succeed/ For many young people in late adolescence and early adulthood, school is a top priority. Whether it’s finishing high school, learning a trade, or pursuing a college degree, education often takes center stage. But for students dealing with psychosis, navigating school can become a real challenge. Tue, 01 Oct 2024 04:00:00 Z https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/behind-the-smoke-unmasking-the-link-between-cannabis-and-schizophrenia/ https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/behind-the-smoke-unmasking-the-link-between-cannabis-and-schizophrenia/ The link between cannabis and its effects on mental health, particularly schizophrenia, continues to spark debate. While many tout marijuana’s calming effects, particularly in online forums, mental health experts caution against its use—especially among young people. Research increasingly reveals a concerning relationship between cannabis use and psychotic disorders like schizophrenia. Thu, 01 Aug 2024 04:00:00 Z https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/mindmap-promotes-early-detection-of-psychosis-across-connecticut-and-beyond/ https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/mindmap-promotes-early-detection-of-psychosis-across-connecticut-and-beyond/ As May is Mental Health Month, Mindmap actively joined others to spread mental health awareness, specifically focusing on the early detection of psychosis. Since psychosis is treatable, the earlier people receive help, the better the outcomes. Therefore, recovery from psychosis becomes the expectation rather than the exception for those who receive treatment. Wed, 05 Jun 2024 04:00:00 Z https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/understanding-symptoms-of-psychosis-and-who-is-at-risk/ https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/psychiatry/step/news-article/understanding-symptoms-of-psychosis-and-who-is-at-risk/ The dramatic portrayal of psychosis in movies and popular media often sensationalizes and misrepresents the condition. In reality, psychosis encompasses a spectrum of experiences that extend beyond the extremes of violence or unpredictability. Mindmap shares factual information in order to dispel myths and make psychosis safer and more comfortable to talk about. Wed, 03 Apr 2024 04:00:00 Z