Longer DUP (duration of untreated psychosis) is associated with poorer outcome in schizophrenia. Factors unrelated to disease pathology (socioeconomic status, availability of care, recognition of illness and stigma) may contribute to DUP.

Investigating the relation between DUP and fear of stigma in patients and their family members.

38 patients(diagnosed by ICD X as F20-F29), treated at the Institute of Psychiatry,University Clinical Center in Belgrade and their family members(parents or siblings), were assessed through a questionnaire designed for the purpose of this cross sectional study. Data were obtained on fear of being stigmatized and first contact with psychiatrist (in patients) and stigmatization attitudes,estimated DUP,illness mode of onset,initial treatment mode,present evaluation of patients condition,adherence to therapy (in family members).

Patients included in this study were mostly female (68,42%), with high school education (84,2%), single(84,2%), with average age of 30 and 2,53 hospitalizations.

47,37% of family members,as well as 31,58%of patients were afraid of stigmatization by psychiatric treatment-which prolonged DUP. 42,10%of patients felt that they are presently stigmatized.100%of patients have never heard for antistigma programs.

Average period from first behavioral changes to first contact with psychiatrist was 16,34 weeks and 32,6 weeks until starting a continuous treatment (via hospitalization in 57,9%; abrupt illness onset in 42,10%)

Correlation found between DUP and fear of stigma in patients and their family members requires focused antistigma interventions in order to improve psychotic disorders treatment strategies.