New data have been published highlighting the impact of the National Clinical Programme for Early Intervention Psychosis (EIP) in 2025. The data highlights significant improvements in recovery outcomes, earlier access to care, increased participation in employment, and enhanced support for the families of young people experiencing psychosis.
Psychosis commonly emerges during late adolescence and early adulthood. International evidence shows that early identification and treatment can significantly improve long-term recovery, educational achievement, employment outcomes, and quality of life.
EIP services aim to provide timely, evidence-based care for people experiencing a first episode of psychosis, helping young people recover, remain connected to education and employment, and reduce the long-term impact of severe mental illness.
In 2025:
- 478 people received specialist EIP care.
- More than 31,200 specialist appointments were delivered.
- 509 family members received dedicated support, helping improve recovery outcomes and reduce the risk of relapse.
- 60% of service users were under the age of 35.
- The average Duration of Untreated Psychosis (DUP) was reduced from 16 weeks to five weeks.
- 70% of people achieved functional and/or personal recovery.
- People’s day-to-day functioning improved by an average of 50% while engaged with an EIP team.
- 179 people secured employment through Individual Placement and Support (IPS) programmes over the past three years.
- Among people who were not in education, employment or training, 80% gained employment after referral to an EIP team with an IPS worker.
The programme’s integrated approach to addiction care also demonstrated significant benefits. Data showed that 31 per cent of people presenting with a first episode of psychosis had used illegal substances in the previous month, while 23 per cent had a diagnosis of addiction. In teams with integrated addiction support, 75 per cent of service users with co-existing addiction engaged with addiction services, compared with 25 per cent in teams without integration.
Early Intervention Psychosis National Clinical Lead, Dr Karen O’Connor, said: “The 2025 national data demonstrate that investment in EIP is delivering real benefits for young people and their families.
“We are helping people access specialist care sooner, supporting meaningful recovery, improving participation in education and employment, and providing holistic care tailored to people’s individual needs.
“These findings show that when we intervene early, recovery is not only possible, it is expected. As we continue the expansion of these services, we will allow more young people across Ireland to benefit from this evidence-based model of care.”
