Psychotic disorders in urban areas: Results from the Australian National Survey 1997–1998

Abstract

As part of the National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing, the study on psychotic disorders in four urban areas (Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne and Perth) included onemonth census and screening of all contacts with treatment and social agencies for individuals meeting criteria for psychosis. Of 3800 screen-positive persons (age 18-64), 980 (including public service users, patients of private practitioners, and homeless people) were sampled and assessed with a structured diagnostic interview. Further 146 interviewees were individuals with previous history of psychosis but no contacts for 1 to 3 years prior to census.