The Australian National Survey of High Impact Psychosis (SHIP)

The aims of this survey are (i) to describe the prevalence and profile of psychosis in Australia and (ii) to identify factors associated with good outcome in psychosis that are amenable to change and critical to recovery with the intention of informing policy development and service planning.

It is collecting national data that will provide an evidence base for understanding barriers to good outcomes for people with psychosis, including their social and economic integration. SHIP asks questions about: symptoms, utilisation of mental health and other services; perceived need; education; cognition; social participation (work and skill development; activities of daily living; family responsibilities; other social engagement and community integration); living circumstances; support networks; physical well-being (including a physical health assessment; physical activity; nutrition; risk factors for metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease; smoking); and drug and alcohol use.

SHIP is taking place at 7 sites in 5 states across Australia: NSW, QLD, SA, VIC and WA. It uses a two-phase sampling design. Phase 1 screening for psychosis took place in the census month which was March 2010. In Phase 2, 2000 individuals aged 18-64 have been randomly selected for participation from those screen-positive for psychosis and are being interviewed and assessed. The interview phase will be completed by the end of 2010.

Contact

Dr Vera Morgan +61 8 9224 0235
Professor Assen Jablensky +61 8 9347 6416