Predicting psychotic relapse using speech analysis
Predicting Psychotic Relapse Using Speech-Based Early Detection
This study is testing a new way to predict when people with early psychosis might have a relapse by analyzing their speech patterns to see if it can help them get support sooner.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 250 (estimated) |
| Ages | 16 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Douglas Mental Health University Institute Academic / other |
| Locations | 3 sites (London, Ontario and 2 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06978894 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to develop and validate a digital model that predicts relapses in individuals with early psychosis by analyzing their speech patterns. Utilizing natural language processing tools, the study will assess changes in speech coherence, connectedness, and complexity to identify imminent relapses up to four weeks in advance. Conducted across Early Psychosis Intervention clinics in Ontario and Quebec, the research will also explore the model's effectiveness across different languages and genders. A total of 250 first-episode psychosis patients will be recruited for this longitudinal study.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 16 and older who have a diagnosis of psychotic disorders and are currently receiving treatment through an Early Psychosis Intervention program.
Not a fit: Patients with severe comorbid speech or language disorders or those with primary diagnoses of non-psychotic disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a novel method for early detection of psychotic relapses, potentially improving patient outcomes and reducing the severity of episodes.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using speech analysis for relapse prediction is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in identifying early signs of psychotic episodes through language abnormalities.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age must be 16 years and older * Diagnosis must meet DSM-5 criteria for psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or related conditions * Fluency in English or French * Must be currently receiving treatment through an EPI program Exclusion Criteria: * Severe comorbid speech or language disorders (e.g., aphasia) * Primary diagnosis of non-psychotic disorders * Inability to provide consent or complete assessments
Where this trial is running
London, Ontario and 2 other locations
- Robarts Research Institute — London, Ontario, Canada (Recruiting)
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute — Montreal, Quebec, Canada (Recruiting)
- Vitam — Québec, Quebec, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Lena Palaniyappan, MD, PHD
- Email: lena.palaniyappan@mcgill.ca
- Phone: 5147616131
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.