Griffiths, Helen

Whyte, Katie

Richardson, Kirsten

2026-05-29T13:17:07Z

2026-05-29

OBJECTIVE: This research portfolio examines interventions for the treatment of psychosis or psychosis related experiences. The systematic review synthesised and critically appraised existing research on the experiences of peer support from the perspective of those directly affected by psychosis or related symptoms, as well as their family members or carers. The empirical mixed methods study analysed the implementation of an Early Intervention Psychosis (EIP) service in a rural Scottish health board. METHODS: A systematic search identified qualitative studies examining experiences of peer support from the perspective of individuals with psychosis, or similar experiences, and their family members or carers. Thematic synthesis generated analytical themes from the findings of the included studies. Fifteen interviews were investigated using grounded theory in the empirical project, alongside the analysis of quantitative service evaluation data. RESULTS: The systematic review identified eight eligible studies. Four analytical themes were conceptualised in a phased structure to reflect the experience of peer support: (1) connecting with peers, (2) learning through mutual support, (3) hopeful progression and (4) influence of setting. The empirical project reported that implementation of the EIP service in a rural health board was as achieved through fidelity to the EIP model being indicated by short waiting times, high engagement and change over time demonstrated. However, long duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) was reported. A grounded theory provides a conceptual framework for understanding how staff rely on collaboration, building relationships and being there for service users and families to navigate the challenges present in delivering EIP in the rural health board. Barriers included social isolation and the influence of restricted access to activities and transport links. CONCLUSION: The systematic review identified peer support as providing an environment which challenges stigma and aids the recovery from psychosis through peer learning opportunities. The findings of the empirical project emphasised the role of relationship-building and collaboration is essential in the effective implementation of an EIP service in rural areas. The influence of rurality on isolation and healthcare remains a challenge recovery and future research should explore this within the context of increasing timely access to treatment for psychosis. The role of peer support should also be emphasised.

https://era.ed.ac.uk/handle/1842/44772

https://doi.org/10.7488/era/7286

en

The University of Edinburgh

early intervention psychosis

rural

mixed methods

grounded theory

Peer support

psychosis

experience

family and carers

Investigating service users and family members experiences of peer support and the implementation of a rural early intervention psychosis service: a research portfolio

Thesis

Doctoral

DClinPsychol Doctorate in Clinical Psychology