Early Assessment and Support Alliance Connections: Community-Based Participatory Research to Develop a Peer-based Early Psychosis Web Resource with Young Adults.

Abstract

Young adults (YA) who have experienced early psychosis (EP) have valuable information about their recovery process yet are often left out of research. We used a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach in partnership with the Early Assessment and Support Alliance (EASA) EP program and Portland State University to develop a peer-driven, webbased, recovery resource. We used our CBPR process to collaboratively develop the resource and conducted an iterative usability study to test and refine it. The resource was well-received and accessible. YA partners emphasize the importance of being prepared to learn about research and one's self, being open to new experiences, and how being co-researchers can help with processing EP experiences for the benefit of one's self and peers. Peer involvement in intervention development may increase usability. It benefits YA and adult coresearchers. We strongly recommend including YA who have experienced EP as co-researchers.