People born more recently are being diagnosed with psychotic disorders more often. They are also reaching these diagnoses at much younger ages. A massive study of 12 million people in Ontario highlights this shift. Researchers published these findings in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.
The study included individuals born in Ontario between 1960 and 2009. Among this group, over 152,000 people received a psychosis diagnosis. The data shows a 60 percent increase in new cases among youth. This spike occurred specifically in people aged 14 to 20.
In 1997, there were 62.5 cases per 100,000 people. By 2023, that number jumped to 99.7 cases. These increases began appearing in cohorts born in the 1980s and later. People born between 2000 and 2004 face the highest risks. This group has a 70 percent greater rate of new diagnoses.
Who Is Most Affected by This Trend?
The rise in psychosis is consistent for both males and females. However, males still remain at a higher overall risk. Specific demographics show a higher likelihood of nonaffective psychotic disorders like schizophrenia.
Those at higher risk are often male and live in low-income areas. Long-standing residents of Canada also show higher rates. Many of these individuals previously received care for mental health or substance use. Similar trends have appeared in recent studies from Denmark and Australia.
Possible Causes Behind the Surge
Experts are now questioning what drives these significant changes. There is likely no single explanation for the trend. However, researchers have identified several potential contributing factors.
Substance use is considered a leading possibility for the increase. This includes the use of cannabis, stimulants, and hallucinogens. Use of these substances has risen in Canada over two decades. Early life substance use is strongly linked to worsening psychotic disorders. Other factors include older parental age and socioeconomic stress.
Q&A: Understanding the Psychosis Study
Why is this study important for public health?
Psychotic disorders lead to high morbidity and risks of premature death. Understanding these trends is critical for early support and prevention.
Which age group saw the biggest increase?
The study found a 60 percent increase in new cases among 14 to 20-year-olds.
What substances are linked to these disorders?
Researchers highlighted cannabis, stimulants, hallucinogens, and synthetic drugs as major concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are more women being diagnosed with psychosis?
Yes, the increase is consistent for both males and females. However, males remain at a higher risk.
What is a “nonaffective” psychotic disorder?
This refers to disorders not linked to mood, such as schizophrenia.
How does birth year affect the risk of diagnosis?
People born more recently, especially after 1980, are diagnosed more often and earlier.
Does where you live impact your risk?
The study found that people in low-income neighbourhoods are more likely to be diagnosed.
What other factors might be involved? Socioeconomic stress, migration-associated stress, and negative childhood experiences may contribute to the rise