Co-occurring first-episode psychosis and borderline personality pathology in an early intervention for psychosis cohort

INTRODUCTION

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is common among people diagnosed with first episode of psychosis (FEP), but is often under-recognized and under-researched. This study aimed to determine: (i) the prevalence of borderline personality pathology (subthreshold features and categorical disorder) in a FEP cohort (termed FEP + BPP); (ii) demographic and clinical factors associated with FEP + BPP; (iii) the symptomatic and functional outcomes.

METHODS

This study was conducted within the Early Psychosis Prevention and Intervention Centre (EPPIC) at Orygen over the 30-month period between 2014 and 2016. BPP was evaluated by using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis II Personality Questionnaire BPD criteria.

RESULTS

In a cohort of 457 young people with a FEP (mean age 19.5 years, 56% male), 18.4% had borderline personality pathology (BPP). Compared with FEP alone, young people with FEP + BPP were more likely to be female, younger, Australian-born. In addition, young people with FEP + BPP were more likely to be diagnosed with Psychosis NOS, present with more severe hallucinations, and have alcohol abuse. Young people with FEP + BPP had more relationship difficulties at presentation and they were more likely to suffer of depression and to engage in self-harm throughout the follow-up. In relation to outcome, FEP + BPP was not associated with different rates of remission or relapse, however they were less likely to be admitted to hospital at presentation or involuntarily during their episode of care.

CONCLUSION

BPP is a common occurrence in psychotic disorders and is associated with more severe hallucinations and depression with higher risks of self-harm. Specific interventions need to be developed.