The development of a sport-based life skills program for young people with first episode psychosis: An intervention mapping approach

Objectives: The needs of young people recovering from a first episode of psychosis (FEP) are multi-faceted. As a result of the metabolic problems and social isolation that often accompany FEP, combined with the effects of such a disruption at a critical developmental time, FEP recovery services often target physical activity, social connectivity, and life skills development. Sport has recently been presented as a potential platform to integrate these three recovery goals, but has yet to be explored empirically. The overarching aim of this study was to systematically develop a sport-based life skills intervention for young people recovering from FEP. Method: We used an intervention mapping approach as a guiding framework to systematically develop an evidence-based intervention. The process began with a needs assessment that provided an understanding of the problem. We then conducted an analysis of the outcomes and objectives needed for change, and highlighted specific evidence-based change methods that could inform relevant practical application strategies. Sindings: This systematic process culminated in an evidence-based framework for a feasibility and pilot study. This study is novel as it is the first, to our knowledge, to 1) utilise an intervention mapping approach within FEP research, 2) design a sport-based intervention specifically for a FEP population, and 3) to apply sport-based life skills training components in FEP research. Conclusions and implications: for Practice: This study serves as a starting point for clinicians and researchers interested in sport-based functional recovery efforts in FEP.