Social functioning in individuals with first episode psychosis: One-year follow-up study.

BACKGROUND: Improvement in social functioning is important for recovery in first episode psychosis (FEP).

METHODOLOGY: 51 individuals diagnosed with first episode psychosis were assessed for social functioning at baseline and one year follow-up.

RESULTS: Significant improvement was seen in certain domains of social functioning measured by LSP scale such as communication and non-turbulence while no significant changes were observed in self-care and social contact.

CONCLUSION: At one year follow-up, partial improvement in social functioning is observed in individuals with first episode psychosis. This warrants inclusion of specific interventions to improve social functioning in the management plan of individuals with FEP.