DOI: 10.1192/bjp.2026.10747 ISSN: 0007-1250
Improving outcomes for people with co-occurring autism and psychosis: from diagnostic overshadowing to system-wide clinical capability
Andrew J. Watson, Kathryn M. Taylor, Demelza Tootill, Vaughan BellSummary
Individuals with co-occurring autism and psychosis are poorly supported by current psychiatric systems yet commonly present to both autism and psychosis services. Diagnostic overshadowing, fragmented pathways and unadapted interventions drive poorer outcomes. Psychosis services must embed neurodevelopmentally informed assessment, formulation, staff training and routine treatment adaptations to deliver equitable, effective care for this underserved population.