# Characteristics Associated with Engagement in the Early Detection Cascade of Care for Psychosis at a College Counseling Center

## TL;DR

This study examines factors influencing student engagement in early psychosis detection at a college counseling center.

## Contribution

The study identifies demographic and clinical predictors of engagement across stages of an early psychosis detection program.

## Key findings

- Graduate education level and transgender/gender diverse identity predict follow-through with referrals.
- Alcohol use and depressive symptoms are linked to engagement in the early detection process.
- Disengagement is highest between secondary phone screening and CSC eligibility assessment stages.

## Abstract

Using the Cascade of Care framework, we explored the demographic and clinical characteristics of students at six stages in an early psychosis detection program at a college counseling center, with a focus on the transition between stages with the highest disengagement. We detailed and compared the demographic and clinical characteristics of those who (1) completed the Prodromal Questionnaire-Brief (PQ-B, N = 1588); (2) met the PQ-B cutoff score (n = 486); (3) were referred for secondary phone screening (n = 404); (4) completed secondary phone screening (n = 198); (5) completed a Coordinated Specialty Care (CSC) eligibility assessment (n = 51); and (6) were enrolled in CSC (n = 21). Education level and gender identity were associated with engagement at multiple stages of the early detection cascade. Graduate education level, transgender or gender diverse gender identity, alcohol use, and depressive symptoms predicted student follow-through with referral to secondary phone screenings.