An international multi-site, randomized controlled trial of a mindfulness-based psychoeducation group programme for people with schizophrenia

A randomized controlled trial of an acceptance-based, insight-inducing medication adherence therapy (AIM-AT) for adults with early-stage psychosis

This study aimed to test the effectiveness of an acceptance-based medication adherence intervention for people with early-stage psychosis. An assessor-blind, three-arm randomized controlled trial design was used. One hundred and twenty-six participants who were adults with ≤3 years of psychosis were recruited from four district Integrated Community Centers for Mental Wellness in Hong Kong. They were randomly assigned to receive a 10-session acceptance-based, insight-inducing medication adherence therapy (AIM-AT) intervention, a conventional psychoeducation group program, or usual treatment (n = 42 per group). Primary outcomes were medication adherence and insight into the illness/treatment. All study outcomes were measured at recruitment and immediately, 6 months, and 12 months post-intervention. Participants in the AIM-AT experienced statistically significant improvements in the primary outcomes (levels of medication adherence and insight into illness/treatment), when compared to those in the other two groups over the 12-month follow-ups. The AIM-AT group also had significantly greater improvements in psychotic symptoms, psychosocial functioning, service satisfaction, length of rehospitalization, and total number of patients hospitalized over the follow-up period. These findings support the effectiveness of the AIM-AT to improve medication adherence, psychosocial health, and service satisfaction in people with early-stage psychosis.

Systematic review of the safety of mindfulness-based interventions for psychosis

Harmful outcomes of psychological interventions are under-researched, including in mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) for psychosis. This systematic review summarizes reporting and prevalence of 8 harm indices (death, adverse events, hospitalisation, study drop out, noncompletion of therapy, side effects of therapy, symptom deterioration and crisis service use) in Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs) of MBIs for psychosis. Meta-analyses of risk differences were also calculated for each harm index. The review included 39 studies, with a total n of 2684 participants across studies. The percentage of studies reporting on each index of harm, and the prevalence of harm, varied greatly across each index. 0% of studies reported on side effects of interventions compared to 92% of studies reporting on study dropout. Meta-analyses of risk differences (RD) found a higher risk of hospitalisation (RD (95% CI) = -0.136 (-0.23 to -0.05), p = 0.003) and crisis service use (RD (95% CI) = -0.160 (-0.299, -0.024), p = 0.02) in control arms compared to intervention arms, and no significant difference in adverse events, death, symptom deterioration, noncompletion of therapy, drop out and side effects of therapy. Overall, reporting of harm was inconsistent across studies and the quality of data collection and reporting varied. MBIs for psychosis appear to be safe and may reduce the risk of hospitalisation and use of crisis services. However, the absence of thorough reporting on harm precludes a balanced analysis of benefits versus harms. Future research into the effectiveness of MBIs should consistently operationalise, monitor and report data on harm.

Eight-month intensive meditation-based intervention improves refractory hallucinations and delusions and quality of life in male inpatients with schizophrenia: a randomized controlled trial

AIM

This study investigated the impact of an 8-month daily-guided intensive meditation-based intervention (iMI) on persistent hallucinations/delusions and health-related quality of life (QoL) in male inpatients with schizophrenia with treatment-refractory hallucinations and delusions (TRHDs).

METHODS

A randomized controlled trial assigned 64 male inpatients with schizophrenia and TRHD equally to an 8-month iMI plus general rehabilitation program (GRP) or GRP alone. Assessments were conducted at baseline and the third and eighth months using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), 36-Item Short Form-36 (SF-36), and Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ). Primary outcomes measured PANSS reduction rates for total score, positive symptoms, and hallucinations/delusions items. Secondary outcomes assessed PANSS, SF-36, and FFMQ scores for psychotic symptoms, health-related QoL, and mindfulness skills, respectively.

RESULTS

In the primary outcome, iMI significantly improved the reduction rates of PANSS total score, positive symptoms, and hallucination/delusion items compared with GRP at both the third and eighth months. Treatment response rates (≥25% reduction) for these measures significantly increased in the iMI group at the eighth month. Concerning secondary outcomes, iMI significantly reduced PANSS total score and hallucination/delusion items, while increasing scores in physical activity and mindfulness skills at both the third and eighth months compared with GRP. These effects were more pronounced with an 8-month intervention compared with a 3-month intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

An iMI benefits patients with TRHDs by reducing persistent hallucinations/delusions and enhancing health-related QoL. Longer iMI duration yields superior treatment outcomes.

Effectiveness of mindfulness-based intervention in schizophrenia: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Schizophrenia poses significant societal challenges, including interpersonal tension, an increased risk of suicide, and soaring medical costs. Although antipsychotics can prevent relapses, they often give rise to adverse effects and do not provide lasting relief. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) emerge as a hopeful avenue for improving outcomes. However, existing research and meta-analyses of the efficacy of MBI in schizophrenia remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of MBI as an adjunctive therapy for schizophrenia. Relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were searched across PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library from inception dates up to January 12, 2023. Statistical analyses were conducted using Stata software (version 15.0) and Review Manager 5.4. The quality of the included RCTs was assessed using the revised Cochrane risk of bias tool. A total of 18 RCTs were included, with 675 patients and 704 health controls. Our meta-analysis revealed that MBI significantly improved psychosocial function, insight, and mindfulness in individuals with schizophrenia. The quality of the included RCTs had a low to moderate risk of bias. These findings suggest that MBI holds promise for improving the mental health of individuals with schizophrenia.

Effects of mind-body therapies on schizophrenia: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this meta-analysis is to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of different mind-body therapies in reducing the symptoms of schizophrenia.

METHODS

A systematic search was performed using databases such as PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus. Randomized controlled trials that assessed the effects of mind-body therapies on patients with schizophrenia were included. The search covered the period between the inception of each database and November 17th, 2022. The methodological quality of the trials was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. A network meta-analysis was conducted to compare the effects of various mind-body therapies, including Yoga, Mindfulness, Tai Chi, Baduanjin, and Yijinjing.

RESULTS

The analysis included 22 randomized controlled trials involving a total of 2064 subjects. The network meta-analysis revealed that Yoga and Mindfulness interventions were more effective than other mind-body therapies in reducing the symptoms of schizophrenia. Specifically, Yoga improved PANSS-positive symptom scores (SUCRA: 74.8 %) and PANSS-negative symptom scores (SUCRA: 80.4 %), whereas Mindfulness improved PANSS-positive symptom scores (SUCRA: 85.6 %).

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study indicate that Yoga may be a promising intervention for the treatment of schizophrenia. However, the small sample size and the low quality of the included studies have limited the generalizability of our findings Therefore, this study must be understood with caution, and further investigation is warranted when more relevant studies emerge.

Mindfulness-based interventions for patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders: A systematic review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have emerged as secular practices, including elements of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). While MBIs have been widely adopted for physical and mental illness, only a few available programs are explicitly adapted for psychosis. However, previous reviews have reported the vital heterogeneity regarding treatment program structure. Therefore, this review aims to compare the structure of different mindfulness protocols applied to patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SSD).

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted up to March 2023 in PubMed, Embase and PsycInfo. Following our protocol (CRD 42023253356), we followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist.

RESULTS

We included 22 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 1500 patients SSD. All programs varied in structure, session components, duration, and instructor experience. While MBSR-like programs focused on stress reactivity, MBCT-like programs addressed primary symptoms of psychosis and relapse prevention. Despite the heterogeneity of programs, some common mechanisms emerged, including attention training, emotion and stress regulation, decentering, self-compassion, and cognitive restructuring.

CONCLUSIONS

The critical heterogeneity found limits the interpretation of results. However, most recent trials present fewer risks of bias and more homogenous programs. Findings suggested potential benefits, such as reduced negative symptoms, increased well-being, and decreased hospitalization rates. For future studies, authors should align on more congruent MBIs programs for patients with SSD. Further research is needed to identify optimal mindfulness teaching approaches for patients with psychosis and investigate specific mechanisms of action, relevant processes, and optimal doses in varying settings.

Mindfulness-based intervention improves residual negative symptoms and cognitive impairment in schizophrenia: a randomized controlled follow-up study

BACKGROUND

Residual negative symptoms and cognitive impairment are common for chronic schizophrenia patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of a mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) on negative and cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia patients with residual negative symptoms.

METHODS

In this 6-week, randomized, single-blind, controlled study, a total of 100 schizophrenia patients with residual negative symptoms were randomly assigned to the MBI or control group. The 6-week MBI group and the control group with general rehabilitation programs maintained their original antipsychotic treatments. The scores for the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS), and the Symptom Checklist 90 (SCL-90) were recorded at baseline and week 6 to assess psychotic symptoms, cognitive performance, and emotional state, respectively.

RESULTS

Compared with general rehabilitation programs, MBI alleviated the PANSS-negative subscore, general psychopathology subscore, and PANSS total score in schizophrenia patients with residual negative symptoms (F = 33.77, p_Bonferroni < 0.001; F = 42.01, p_Bonferroni < 0.001; F = 52.41, p_Bonferroni < 0.001, respectively). Furthermore, MBI improved RBANS total score and immediate memory subscore (F = 8.80, p_Bonferroni = 0.024; F = 11.37, p_Bonferroni = 0.006), as well as SCL-90 total score in schizophrenia patients with residual negative symptoms (F = 18.39, p_Bonferroni < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate that MBI helps schizophrenia patients with residual negative symptoms improve clinical symptoms including negative symptom, general psychopathology symptom, and cognitive impairment.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ChiCTR2100043803.

Effects of psychological treatments on functioning in people with Schizophrenia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Functioning is recognized as a key treatment goal in alleviating the burden of schizophrenia. Psychological interventions can play an important role in improving functioning in this population, but the evidence on their efficacy is limited. We therefore aimed to evaluate the effect of psychological interventions in functioning for patients with schizophrenia. To conduct this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched for published and unpublished randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, BIOSIS, Cochrane Library, WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP), ClinicalTrials.gov and the Study register of the Cochrane Schizophrenia Group. The outcome functioning was measured with validated scales. We performed random-effects pairwise meta-analysis to calculate standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We included 58 RCTs (5048 participants). Psychological interventions analyzed together (SMD =  - 0.37, 95% CI  - 0.49 to  - 0.25), cognitive behavioral therapy (30 RCTs, SMD =  - 0.26, 95% CI  - 0.39 to  - 0.12), and third wave cognitive-behavioral therapies (15 RCTs, SMD =  - 0.60, 95% CI  - 0.83 to  - 0.37) were superior to control in improving functioning, while creative therapies (8 RCTs, SMD = 0.01, 95% CI  - 0.38 to 0.39), integrated therapies (4 RCTs, SMD =  - 0.21, 95% CI  - 1.20 to 0.78) and other therapies (4 RCTs, SMD =  - 0.74, 95% CI  - 1.52 to 0.04) did not show a benefit. Psychological interventions, in particular cognitive behavioral therapy and third wave cognitive behavioral therapies, have shown a therapeutic effect on functioning. The confidence in the estimate was evaluated as very low due to risk of bias, heterogeneity and possible publication bias.

Mindfulness-based interventions for non-affective psychosis: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

Although mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are routinely used in clinical practice, a comprehensive synthesis of the effectiveness of MBIs for non-affective psychosis has yet to be conducted. The aim of the present review and meta-analysis was to investigate the effectiveness of MBIs including those with mindfulness as an active treatment component for alleviating symptoms of psychosis to inform future clinical practice.

METHODS

A systematic review of studies published in journals or in dissertations in CINAHL, PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CENTRAL, ISRCTN, or CNKI from January 1990 until December 2020. A total of 31 eligible studies (n = 2146) were included.

RESULTS

Effect-size estimates suggested that 22 independent samples (n = 1632) produced a statistically significant small effect for psychotic symptoms (g = -0.48), and with a clinically significant reduction of 50% from baseline (pooled OR: 1.84). Separate meta-analyses demonstrated small effects for affective symptoms (g = -0.44) and small-to-large positive effects for quality of life (g = 0.38), mindfulness skills (g = 0.45), and insight into illness/treatment (g = 1.35). The heterogeneity was high across the studies.

CONCLUSION

Results suggest that short-term MBIs can be beneficial for non-affective psychosis. Future research is needed to test the efficacy and safety of dedicated MBIs for this population group over a longer term. KEY MESSAGESSchizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders, also known as non-affective psychosis, is the most chronic and debilitating type of psychosis, seriously affecting every aspect of a person's life, including social, occupational, or general functioning.The aim of the current systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate formerly unexamined questions regarding the clinical significance of MBIs including yoga as an increasingly utilized, conceptualized psychological intervention on overall psychotic symptoms for people with non-affective psychosis.No serious adverse events were reported in the studies, suggesting that MBIs may be safe interventions, while there is robust evidence to support the view that MBIs are beneficial to young people in particular.

A randomized controlled trial of a peer-facilitated self-management program for people with recent-onset psychosis

Early patient-centered interventions can improve mental health and prevent psychotic relapse in people with recent-onset psychosis (ROP). However, limited effective peer-facilitated early interventions are found worldwide. We aimed to test the effects of a four-month peer-facilitated self-management intervention (PFSMI) for Chinese patients with ROP compared with a psychoeducation group (PEG) and treatment-as-usual (TAU) group. A randomized controlled trial was conducted at six Integrated Community Centers for Mental Wellness in Hong Kong. The primary outcome was level of recovery. Secondary outcomes were improvement of problem-solving ability, insight into illness/treatment, and functioning, and reducing psychotic symptoms and re-hospitalization rates. Overall, 180 ROP patients were randomly selected, and after collecting baseline data, randomly assigned to the PFSMI, PEG or TAU (60 per group). Their outcomes were measured at 1-week and 6-month post-intervention. One hundred and sixty-one patients (89.4 %) completed their interventions, with an overall attrition rate of 7.8 % (n = 14). Based on intention-to-treat principle, results of generalized estimating equation test indicated that the PFSMI group reported significantly greater improvements in levels of recovery, functioning and insight into illness/treatment and reductions in psychotic symptoms and duration of re-hospitalizations (p = 0.0007-0.02, with moderate to large effect sizes) than the TAU group at 1-week post-intervention, and both the TAU and PEG at 6-month post-intervention. Significantly fewer PFSMI participants were hospitalized than the TAU and PEG over 6-month follow-up (p = 0.003). The findings support that PFSMI can produce medium-term positive effects on the mental health and functioning of patients with ROP.

The effect of mindfulness on medication adherence in individuals diagnosed with Schizophrenia: A cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to determine the effect of mindfulness on medication adherence in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted with 147 individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. The data were collected using the Descriptive Characteristics Form, Morisky Medication Adherence Scale, and Mindful Attention Awareness Scale.

RESULTS

A strong positive correlation was determined between the mindfulness level and medication adherence of the individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. Furthermore, mindfulness of the individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia was statistically significant in explaining medication adherence (p < 0.05) and mindfulness predicted medication adherence by 64%.

CONCLUSION

It was observed that the individuals' mindfulness level was low and half of the participants had low medication adherence. Moreover, as their mindfulness level increased, so did their medication adherence.

Home practice in mindfulness-based interventions for psychosis groups: a systematic review and qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Regular home practice is considered a core component of mindfulness groups and may be associated with better treatment outcomes. This study aimed to (1) review the existing evidence on how much home practice people do in mindfulness-based interventions for psychosis groups, and (2) explore participants' experiences of the barriers and facilitators to completing home practice in a mindfulness for psychosis group using a qualitative study.

METHODS

In study 1, we conducted a systematic review of mindfulness-based interventions for psychosis studies and extracted data on home practice rates. In study 2, we conducted semi-structured interviews with people who had completed a mindfulness for psychosis group (N = 5) as part of their routine community care, specifically focusing on experiences of home practice.

RESULTS

Out of 43 studies included in the systematic review, only 5 reported any data on amount of home practice, and none examined the relationship between completion of home practice and treatment outcomes. In the qualitative study, participants described home practice as being difficult but important. Arising themes were similar to findings from previous (non-psychosis) studies suggesting that generic challenges are common, rather than being specific to psychosis.

CONCLUSIONS

We recommend that future mindfulness-based interventions for psychosis studies record data on home practice rates, in order to investigate any association between home practice and treatment outcome. Our qualitative findings suggest home practice can be a valued part of mindfulness for psychosis group, and a normalising approach could be taken when and if participants encounter common challenges.

Dispositional Mindfulness and Psychotic Symptoms in Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders: The Mediating Roles of Rumination and Negative Emotion

INTRODUCTION

Studies have shown that rumination plays a significant mediating role between dispositional mindfulness (DM) and psychopathological symptoms in both clinical and non-clinical populations. However, no studies have examined this pathway in people with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs).

METHODS

A cross-sectional, clinician-administered survey was conducted among people with SSDs (n = 52) in a community setting. Participants completed the Chinese versions of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale, Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire-Short Form, Psychotic Symptom Rating Scale and Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms. Structural equation modelling was performed to examine the pathways of mindfulness facets, rumination, negative emotions and psychotic symptoms.

RESULTS

Two facets of mindfulness (nonjudging and acting with awareness) reduced rumination and negative emotional status. Rumination fully mediated the relationship between nonjudging and negative emotions and partially mediated the relationship between acting with awareness and negative emotions. Furthermore, rumination and negative emotions sequentially mediated the relationship between acting with awareness and hallucination (B = -0.44, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.338 to -0.045, p = 0.01) and between nonjudging and hallucination (B = -0.356, 95% CI = -0.255 to -0.008, p = 0.034). The model fit the data well (χ²(2) = 1.318, p = 0.517, Tucker-Lewis index = 1.075, comparative fit index = 1, standardised root mean residual = 0.0251, root mean square error of approximation = 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Rumination and negative emotions serially mediated the relationship between DM and hallucination. The findings support the contribution of changes across transdiagnostic mediators underlying the therapeutic effects of mindfulness training. Further research examining the transdiagnostic processes of DM in influencing clinical outcomes in SSDs is warranted.

Reliability and validity of the Mental Health Self-management Questionnaire among Chinese patients with mood and anxiety disorders

BACKGROUND

Self-management plays an important role in promoting and restoring mental health for individuals with mental health issues. However, there is no valid and reliable Chinese tool assessing the self-management behaviors of people with mood and anxiety disorders. This study aimed to develop a Chinese version of the Mental Health Self-management Questionnaire (MHSQ-C) and to verify its psychometric properties.

METHODS

A total of 440 potential participants were recruited by convenience sampling from June to August 2020. Item analysis and analyses of internal consistency, test-retest reliability, content validity, construct validity and criterion validity were performed.

RESULTS

Data from 326 participants were used. Three factors obtained via principal component analysis and varimax rotation explained 53.68% of the total variance. The average content validity index was 0.99. The Cronbach's α coefficient (total: 0.874, clinical: 0.706, empowerment: 0.818, vitality: 0.830) and test-retest reliability (ICC: total: 0.783, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.616, 0.882], clinical: 0.525, 95% CI [0.240, 0.725], empowerment: 0.786, 95% CI [0.622, 0.884], vitality: 0.748, 95% CI [0.564, 0.862]) were good. The MHSQ-C was well correlated with the Partners in Health scale and showed no floor or ceiling effect.

DISCUSSION

The MHSQ-C is a reliable and valid tool to evaluate the self-management strategies of patients with mood and anxiety disorders.

Mindfulness meditation for Chinese patients with psychosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Mindfulness meditation (MM) and its alignment with the mind-body perspective of health in Chinese cultures indicate its potential to benefit Chinese patients with psychosis. This is the first systematic review and meta-analysis to address the following questions: (1) Does MM improve clinical, well-being, and third-wave outcomes (i.e., mindfulness, acceptance, and compassion levels) among Chinese patients with psychosis? (2) What are the patient- and/or intervention-specific factors that moderate the efficacy of MM? (3) Are improvements on third-wave outcomes associated with improvements on clinical and well-being outcomes? (4) What are the mechanisms underlying the effects of MM? Evidence synthesized from 23 relevant articles (20 studies) involving 1749 patients showed that (1) MM improved a wide range of patients' outcomes, most consistently and sustainably for insight, rehospitalization duration, recovery rate, and social functioning; (2) age and duration of illness, but not the cumulated intervention hours, moderated the overall efficacy of MM; (3) post-MM improvements on mindfulness and on clinical and well-being outcomes were related, and (4) the effects of MM on patients' outcomes may be driven by its ability to promote positive changes in personal growth and enhance one's coping with the illness and its symptoms. Our data showed preliminary support for the benefits of MM in Chinese patients with psychosis. However, results should be considered in light of the varying quality of included studies and their heterogeneity in multiple aspects. Further research is needed to deduce the sustainability of MM's effects, its active ingredients, underlying mechanisms, and additional moderators of its efficacy.

Mindfulness-based psychoeducation for schizophrenia spectrum disorders: a qualitative analysis of participants' experiences

Mindfulness-based psychoeducation program (MBPP) has been proposed as a new approach to improve the overall outcomes for individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. However, to date, limited studies have examined the participants' experiences of MBPP for schizophrenia.

The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs) who underwent an 8-week MBPP with respect to their perception of the benefits and unusual challenges of mindfulness training and self-practices.

Twenty-four (n = 24) individuals with SSDs were invited to participate in an 8-week MBPP. A total of eight participants were invited for semi-structured interview one week after the final class of MBPP. The semi-structured interview was conducted in Cantonese and data were transcribed by the first author. Of the eight participants, five participants had unusual experiences and three participants had a positive experience with MBPP. They were included to provide more candid understanding on the constituents of diverse experience towards MBPP. An interview guide was developed to understand the patients' perceptions of MBPP, the challenege in self-practising mindfulness, and the changes in how they coped with their illness during and after taking part in MBPP. Qualitative data from the semi-structured interview were recorded by a research assistant and the transcripts were proof-read by the participants to ensure accuracy. The Software NVivo 12 Pro was used to manage the qualitative data from the semi-structured interview. Thematic analysis was adopted to identify the major themes from the qualitative data.

Five themes emerged: developing a state of mindfulness, empowering illness management, learning a new way to regulate emotion, encountering barriers in self-practising mindfulness and preference for bodily mindfulness.

The findings provide comprehensive knowledge and deeper insights into treatment processes of mindfulness psychoeducation as an intervention for schizophrenia spectrum disorders.

IMPACT STATEMENT

This study establishes a body of knowledge regarding people with schizophrenia spectrum disorders who received mindfulness psychoeducation intervention. The results suggest that patients can develop a new way to regulate emotion and manage their illness through mindfulness psychoeducation. The perceived negative experience of some patients also warrants closer attention in mindfulness practice, especially for individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Further research could focus on factors leading to the negative consequences of mindfulness practice and the ways to minimize the negative consequeces.

Primary-level worker interventions for the care of people living with mental disorders and distress in low- and middle-income countries

BACKGROUND

Community-based primary-level workers (PWs) are an important strategy for addressing gaps in mental health service delivery in low- and middle-income countries.  OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effectiveness of PW-led treatments for persons with mental health symptoms in LMICs, compared to usual care.  SEARCH METHODS: MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, ClinicalTrials.gov, ICTRP, reference lists (to 20 June 2019).   SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised trials of PW-led or collaborative-care interventions treating people with mental health symptoms or their carers in LMICs.  PWs included: primary health professionals (PHPs), lay health workers (LHWs), community non-health professionals (CPs).  DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Seven conditions were identified apriori and analysed by disorder and PW examining recovery, prevalence, symptom change, quality-of-life (QOL), functioning, service use (SU), and adverse events (AEs).  Risk ratios (RRs) were used for dichotomous outcomes; mean difference (MDs), standardised mean differences (SMDs), or mean change differences (MCDs) for continuous outcomes.  For SMDs, 0.20 to 0.49 represented small, 0.50 to 0.79 moderate, and ≥0.80 large clinical effects.  Analysis timepoints: T1 (<1 month), T2 (1-6 months), T3 ( >6 months) post-intervention.  MAIN RESULTS: Description of studies 95 trials (72 new since 2013) from 30 LMICs (25 trials from 13 LICs).  Risk of bias Most common: detection bias, attrition bias (efficacy), insufficient protection against contamination.  Intervention effects *Unless indicated, comparisons were usual care at T2.  "Probably", "may", or "uncertain" indicates "moderate", "low," or "very low" certainty evidence.   Adults with common mental disorders (CMDs) LHW-led interventions a. may increase recovery (2 trials, 308 participants; RR 1.29, 95%CI 1.06 to 1.56); b. may reduce prevalence (2 trials, 479 participants; RR 0.42, 95%CI 0.18 to 0.96); c. may reduce symptoms (4 trials, 798 participants; SMD -0.59, 95%CI -1.01 to -0.16); d. may improve QOL (1 trial, 521 participants; SMD 0.51, 95%CI 0.34 to 0.69); e. may slightly reduce functional impairment (3 trials, 1399 participants; SMD -0.47, 95%CI -0.8 to -0.15); f. may reduce AEs (risk of suicide ideation/attempts); g. may have uncertain effects on SU. Collaborative-care a. may increase recovery (5 trials, 804 participants; RR 2.26, 95%CI 1.50 to 3.43); b. may reduce prevalence although the actual effect range indicates it may have little-or-no effect (2 trials, 2820 participants; RR 0.57, 95%CI 0.32 to 1.01); c. may slightly reduce symptoms (6 trials, 4419 participants; SMD -0.35, 95%CI -0.63 to -0.08); d. may slightly improve QOL (6 trials, 2199 participants; SMD 0.34, 95%CI 0.16 to 0.53); e. probably has little-to-no effect on functional impairment (5 trials, 4216 participants; SMD -0.13, 95%CI -0.28 to 0.03); f. may reduce SU (referral to MH specialists);  g. may have uncertain effects on AEs (death). Women with perinatal depression (PND) LHW-led interventions a. may increase recovery (4 trials, 1243 participants; RR 1.29, 95%CI 1.08 to 1.54); b. probably slightly reduce symptoms (5 trials, 1989 participants; SMD -0.26, 95%CI -0.37 to -0.14); c. may slightly reduce functional impairment (4 trials, 1856 participants; SMD -0.23, 95%CI -0.41 to -0.04); d. may have little-to-no effect on AEs (death);  e. may have uncertain effects on SU. Collaborative-care a. has uncertain effects on symptoms/QOL/SU/AEs. Adults with post-traumatic stress (PTS) or CMDs in humanitarian settings LHW-led interventions a. may slightly reduce depression symptoms (5 trials, 1986 participants; SMD -0.36, 95%CI -0.56 to -0.15); b. probably slightly improve QOL (4 trials, 1918 participants; SMD -0.27, 95%CI -0.39 to -0.15); c. may have uncertain effects on symptoms (PTS)/functioning/SU/AEs. PHP-led interventions a. may reduce PTS symptom prevalence (1 trial, 313 participants; RR 5.50, 95%CI 2.50 to 12.10) and depression prevalence (1 trial, 313 participants; RR 4.60, 95%CI 2.10 to 10.08);  b. may have uncertain effects on symptoms/functioning/SU/AEs.   Adults with harmful/hazardous alcohol or substance use LHW-led interventions a. may increase recovery from harmful/hazardous alcohol use although the actual effect range indicates it may have little-or-no effect (4 trials, 872 participants; RR 1.28, 95%CI 0.94 to 1.74); b. may have little-to-no effect on the prevalence of methamphetamine use (1 trial, 882 participants; RR 1.01, 95%CI 0.91 to 1.13) and  functional impairment (2 trials, 498 participants; SMD -0.14, 95%CI -0.32 to 0.03); c. probably slightly reduce risk of harmful/hazardous alcohol use (3 trials, 667 participants; SMD -0.22, 95%CI -0.32 to -0.11);  d. may have uncertain effects on SU/AEs. PHP/CP-led interventions a. probably have little-to-no effect on recovery from harmful/hazardous alcohol use (3 trials, 1075 participants; RR 0.93, 95%CI 0.77 to 1.12) or QOL (1 trial, 560 participants; MD 0.00, 95%CI -0.10 to 0.10); b. probably slightly reduce risk of harmful/hazardous alcohol and substance use (2 trials, 705 participants; SMD -0.20, 95%CI -0.35 to -0.05; moderate-certainty evidence); c. may have uncertain effects on prevalence (cannabis use)/SU/AEs. PW-led interventions for alcohol/substance dependence a. may have uncertain effects.  Adults with severe mental disorders *Comparisons were specialist-led care at T1. LHW-led interventions a. may have little-to-no effect on caregiver burden (1 trial, 253 participants; MD -0.04, 95%CI -0.18 to 0.11);  b. may have uncertain effects on symptoms/functioning/SU/AEs.  PHP-led or collaborative-care a. may reduce functional impairment (7 trials, 874 participants; SMD -1.13, 95%CI -1.78 to -0.47); b. may have uncertain effects on recovery/relapse/symptoms/QOL/SU.  Adults with dementia and carers PHP/LHW-led carer interventions a. may have little-to-no effect on the severity of behavioural symptoms in dementia patients (2 trials, 134 participants; SMD -0.26, 95%CI -0.60 to 0.08); b. may reduce carers' mental distress (2 trials, 134 participants; SMD -0.47, 95%CI -0.82 to -0.13);  c. may have uncertain effects on QOL/functioning/SU/AEs. Children with PTS or CMDs LHW-led interventions a. may have little-to-no effect on PTS symptoms (3 trials, 1090 participants; MCD -1.34, 95%CI -2.83 to 0.14); b. probably have little-to-no effect on depression symptoms (3 trials, 1092 participants; MCD -0.61, 95%CI -1.23 to 0.02) or on functional impairment (3 trials, 1092 participants; MCD -0.81, 95%CI -1.48 to -0.13);  c. may have little-or-no effect on AEs. CP-led interventions a. may have little-to-no effect on depression symptoms (2 trials, 602 participants; SMD -0.19, 95%CI -0.57 to 0.19) or on AEs;  b. may have uncertain effects on recovery/symptoms(PTS)/functioning.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

PW-led interventions show promising benefits in improving outcomes for CMDs, PND, PTS, harmful alcohol/substance use, and dementia carers in LMICs.

Effectiveness of mindfulness-based intervention on psychotic symptoms for patients with schizophrenia: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIMS

To evaluate the effects of mindfulness-based intervention on psychotic symptoms, positive symptoms, negative symptoms, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and rehospitalization.

DESIGN

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

DATA SOURCES

Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PsycINFO, CINAHL, National Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations in Taiwan, and Airiti Library were searched from their earliest available date up to April 2019.

REVIEW METHODS

The guidelines of the Cochrane Collaboration were followed to report this systematic review. Two authors conducted this meta-analysis independently.

RESULTS

Nine randomized controlled trials were included. Meta-analysis showed that mindfulness-based intervention significantly decreased psychotic symptoms, positive symptoms, negative symptoms, depressive symptoms, and duration of rehospitalization among patients with schizophrenia, and that the reduction in negative symptoms lasted through short-term follow-up. The moderation analysis showed that significantly decreased positive symptoms occurred in the nurse-led intervention group, while no significant impact was found in the psychologist-led intervention group.

CONCLUSION

The psychotic symptoms of the patients with schizophrenia are improved after mindfulness-based intervention and the effects on the negative symptoms can be maintained for at least 3 to 6 months. Mindfulness-based intervention provided by nurses produces more improvements in positive symptoms than intervention provided by psychologists.

IMPACT

A growing number of mindfulness-based interventions have been implemented for patients with schizophrenia, although the effectiveness had not previously been established by meta-analysis. Mindfulness-based interventions appear to reduce the symptom severity of schizophrenia patients. Further suggestions for healthcare providers and researchers are provided and discussed.

Mindfulness for psychosis groups; description and preliminary evaluation of a novel routine care pathway in Hong Kong

Background

There is no current guidance on where Mindfulness for Psychosis groups should best be situated within care pathways. The objectives of this paper are to (1) describe a novel care pathway tested out in a psychiatric outpatient service in Hong Kong, and (2) to present feasibility outcomes on attendance and drop-out, and routine clinical outcomes.

Methods

A new mindfulness pathway was set up, for service users with psychosis who had first completed a course of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for psychosis (CBTp). After attending an orientation ‘taster’ session, service users could then attended a 4-session weekly Mindfulness for Psychosis group, followed by optional monthly follow-up sessions.

Results

A high proportion of service users referred into the pathway (19/22; 86%) went on to attend a Mindfulness for Psychosis group after attending an orientation ‘taster’ session. Attendance at group sessions was high, with all participants attending at least 2/4 group sessions, and no drop-outs. Attendance at monthly follow-up groups was also high, with 84% (16/19) attending at least one monthly follow-up. Routine clinical outcome data showed a reduction in negative symptoms of psychosis, and an increase in mindfulness and mindful responding in daily life, from pre- to post group.

Conclusions

Offering service users with psychosis the opportunity to attend a mindfulness for psychosis group after completing a course of CBTp was highly acceptable, as evidenced by high attendance, and low drop-out. Possible benefits in terms of improving negative symptoms may be particularly important in promoting recovery through improved everyday functioning.

Biological mechanism study of meditation and its application in mental disorders

In recent years, research on meditation as an important alternative therapy has developed rapidly and been widely applied in clinical medicine. Mechanism studies of meditation have also developed progressively, showing that meditation has great impact on brain structure and function, and epigenetic and telomere regulation. In line with this, the application of meditation has gradually been expanded to mental illness, most often applied for major depressive disorders and substance-related and addictive disorders. The focus of this paper is to illustrate the biological mechanisms of meditation and its application in mental disorders.

Mindfulness-Based Interventions for People with Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

(1) Background: There is increasing interest in the practice of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) to treat people with schizophrenia, as evidenced by the publication of different randomized controlled trials (RCTs). However, no meta-analysis of RCTs has been carried out to date with the exclusive inclusion of this type of interventions. (2) Objective: To analyze empirical evidence regarding the effectiveness of MBIs for the improvement of clinical parameters associated with schizophrenia. Method: A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted of RCTs published in the databases PsycINFO, PubMed, WOS, and Cochrane Library. (3) Results: A total of 10 articles (n = 1094) fulfilled the criteria for inclusion in the review. The analysis of these studies suggests that MBIs combined with standard interventions are able to generate significant improvements in a variety of clinical schizophrenia-related parameters, such as the intensity of overall symptomatology (g = 0.72), positive symptoms (g = 0.32), negative symptoms (g = 0.40), functioning level (g = 1.28), and awareness of illness (g = 0.65). (4) Conclusions: There is evidence that supports the effectiveness and safety of MBIs for the treatment of people with schizophrenia. The results obtained by MBIs are comparable to those obtained by cognitive-behavioral therapy for psychosis. However, given the heterogeneity of the applied interventions and the methodological limitations found in the reviewed trials, the results should be interpreted with caution.

Acceptance- and mindfulness-based interventions for persons with psychosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Acceptance- and mindfulness-based approaches have gained popularity in recent years.

OBJECTIVE

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of acceptance- and mindfulness-based therapies for persons with a psychotic or schizophrenia spectrum disorder.

METHODS

Following PRISMA guidelines, relevant databases were searched for published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) up to October 2018. Outcomes were severity of overall symptomatology, hospitalization, positive and negative symptoms, depression, anxiety, social functioning, quality of life, acceptance, mindfulness skills and safety of the interventions.

RESULTS

Sixteen studies comprising 1268 people with a schizophrenia spectrum disorder were included in the meta-analyses. Moderate to large effect sizes were found for overall symptomatology and hospitalization at endpoint (SMD .80, 95% CI -1.31, -0.29 and MD 4.38, -5.58, -3.17 respectively) and follow-up (SMD 1.10, -2.09, -0.10 and MD 7.18, -8.67, - 5.68 respectively). There were significant small effects on negative symptoms (SMD .24; -0.44, -0.03), small to moderate effects for depression (SMD .47; -0.80, -0.14), social functioning (SMD .43; -0.75, - 0.12) and mindfulness (SMD .51; -0.97, -0.05), moderate to large effects for acceptance (SMD .78; -1.44, -0.12), while no significant effects for positive symptoms (SMD .27; -0.65, 0.00), anxiety (SMD 2.11; -4.64, 0.42) or quality of life (SMD .43; -0.88, 0.02). Majority of studies (75%) had low risk of bias and sensitivity analyses supported the findings.

CONCLUSION

Acceptance- and mindfulness-based approaches appear to be effective and safe interventions for individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders and could be a useful extension of standard casemanagement and psychofarmacology.

The Effectiveness of a Mindfulness-Based Psychoeducation Programme for Emotional Regulation in Individuals with Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders: A Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Emotion dysregulation has emerged as a transdiagnostic factor that potentially exacerbates the risk of early-onset, maintenance, and relapse of psychosis. Mindfulness is described as the awareness that emerges from paying attention to the present moment without judgment. It gently pulls the mind out of the negative emotions induced by the disparity between expectation and reality by focusing on the present moment, instead of worrying about the future or regretting the past. However, only a few research has ever focused on the efficacy of using a mindfulness-based intervention to improve emotion regulation in schizophrenia spectrum disorders.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a Mindfulness-Based Psychoeducation Programme (MBPP) on the emotion regulation of individuals with schizophrenia, in particular, to access emotion regulation strategies. The objective of this study was to find out whether MBPP is feasible for improving emotion regulation strategies, in terms of rumination, cognitive reappraisal, and expressive suppression, with a sustainable effect at a three-month follow-up.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A single-blinded pilot randomised controlled trial with repeated-measures designs was adopted. Forty-six participants diagnosed with schizophrenia and its subtypes were randomised in either the 8-week mindfulness-based psychoeducation programme or treatment-as-usual (control) group.

RESULTS

The results of the Generalised Estimating Equations test indicated that the MBPP group showed a significant improvement in reappraisal at a three-month follow-up (β = -6.59, Wald's χ ²=4.55, p=0.033), and a significant reduction in rumination across time. However, the Generalised Estimating Equations indicated no significant difference in rumination and expressive suppression in the MBPP group. Two participants reported having unwanted experiences, including feelings of terror and distress during the mindfulness practice.

CONCLUSION

The MBPP appeared to be effective for improving emotion regulation, which will contribute to future large-scale RCT to confirm the treatment effects in more diverse groups of schizophrenic patients.

Mindfulness-Based Interventions for In-Patients With Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders-A Qualitative Approach

In recent years, mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) have gained clinical relevance in the treatment of patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs). High symptom burden, long durations of hospitalization and high rehospitalization rates demonstrate the severity and cost-intensity of these disorders. MBIs have shown promising treatment outcomes in a small number of trials, primarily taking place in English-speaking countries. The current study aims to explore mechanisms and processes as well as adverse effects of MBIs on in-patients with SSDs in a German university hospital setting. A qualitative design based on inductive thematic analysis accompanied by quantitative assessments was chosen. A semi-structured interview guide was developed by psychiatrists and psychologists to assess patient experiences, perceptions, thoughts, and feelings during and after taking part in a MBI. Twenty-seven interviews were conducted between September 2017 and October 2018 with in-patients who are diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. Rater-based questionnaires, such as the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), and Psychotic Symptom Rating Scales-Auditory Hallucination (PSYRATS-AH) were administered at baseline to collect clinical outcomes. Qualitative analysis revealed two domains: content and function. In the first domain related to content with the core elements "detachment and rumination", "presence and getting lost", "non-judgment and judgment", and effects with "emotions", "cognition", and "symptom changes". A second domain related to function was extracted, including the relevance of perception of context and transfer to everyday life. Overall, improvements concerning cognition, distress, and psychopathology were detected, while no adverse effects, such as increased psychotic symptoms, were revealed. As the first study of its kind, mechanisms, processes, and the safety of MBIs were explored and confirmed in a sample of German in-patients with SSDs. The results of this qualitative study are in line with recent findings on MBIs amongst patients with psychotic disorders from other countries. Results lay the ground for future research to focus on the systematic study of MBIs in large samples, its treatment processes, outcomes, and effectiveness for in-patients with SSDs.

The Role of Five Facets of Mindfulness in a Mindfulness-Based Psychoeducation Intervention for People With Recent-Onset Psychosis on Mental and Psychosocial Health Outcomes

Objective: This study aimed to examine how five facets of mindfulness may be associated with the changes in psychotic patients' health outcomes after participating in a mindfulness-based psychoeducation group (MBPEG) program. Methods: Longitudinal follow-up data from two pragmatic randomized controlled trials of MBPEG for psychotic patients were used for this study. A total of 124 patients who completed the MBPEG program were included in this analysis. Patient outcomes (psychotic symptoms, functioning, insight into illness/treatment, subjective recovery) and five facets of mindfulness were assessed at baseline and six, 12 and 24 months post-intervention. Areas under the curve of individual outcomes in repeated-measures were computed using trapezoidal method, rescaled to the original possible range of the underlying variable and used for correlation and regression analyses. Results: All mean scores of the five facets increased across time and were significantly correlated with the improvements in all patient outcomes (p-values ranged from <0.001 to <0.05), except "non-judging" facet and symptom severity. Regression analyses revealed that only "observing" and "acting with awareness" were significantly associated with positive changes across all outcomes (increase in adjusted R ² ranged from 5.9% to 24.2%, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Two facets of mindfulness, "observing" and "acting with awareness," were related to positive outcomes of psychotic patients after participating in the MBPEG. More efforts in addressing these two facets of mindfulness can be considered to increase the efficacy of mindfulness-based interventions in psychosis.

Effectiveness of a mindfulness-based psychoeducation group programme for early-stage schizophrenia: An 18-month randomised controlled trial

Current psychosocial interventions in schizophrenia are evidenced to improve patients' illness-related knowledge, mental status and relapse rate, but substantive benefits to patients, such as their functioning and insight into the illness, remain uncertain. This multi-centre randomised clinical trial aimed to examine the effects of mindfulness-based psycho-education group intervention for adult patients with early-stage schizophrenia over an 18-month follow-up. The controlled trial was conducted with a repeated-measure, three-arm design at two psychiatric outpatient clinics in Jilin (China) and Hong Kong. A stratified random sample of 180 outpatients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (60/group) was randomly assigned to a mindfulness-based psycho-education group programme, psycho-education group and treatment-as-usual group. The primary outcomes on patients' psychosocial functioning and other patient outcomes, such as psychotic symptoms, in the three groups were compared over the 18-month follow-up (baseline and 1-week, 9-month and 18-month post-intervention). One hundred and sixty (89%) patients completed at least two post-tests. Their mean age and duration of illness were 25-28 years (SD = 6.1-7.8) and 2.1-2.5 years (SD = 1.3-2.0; range 4-54 months), respectively. Compared with the two other groups, the mindfulness-based group exhibited a significantly greater improvement with moderate to large effect sizes (Cohen's d = 0.49-0.98) in functioning (p = 0.005), duration of psychiatric re-hospitalisations (p = 0.007), psychotic symptoms (p = 0.008) and illness insight (p = 0.001) over the 18-month follow-up. Supplementary MRI findings indicated that the mindfulness-based intervention resulted in significant changes in gray matter volume and density in brain regions concerning attention and emotional regulation. Mindfulness-oriented psycho-education group intervention can be an effective intervention for adults with early-stage schizophrenia and exert long-term effects on patients' functioning and mental conditions.

Meditation-based mind-body therapies for negative symptoms of schizophrenia: Systematic review of randomized controlled trials and meta-analysis

Meditation-based mind-body therapies (yoga, tai-chi, qi-gong, mindfulness) have been suggested to have a potential therapeutic effect on negative symptoms. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining effectiveness of yoga, tai-chi, qi-gong and mindfulness on negative symptoms of schizophrenia, using different databases and trial registries. The primary outcome was effect of mind-body therapies on negative symptoms and the secondary outcome was effect on positive symptoms. Fifteen RCTs were included in the meta-analysis (N = 1081 patients). Overall, we found a beneficial effect of mind-body interventions on negative symptoms at endpoint compared to treatment-as-usual or non-specific control interventions, but the effect was small and moderate to high heterogeneity was present. A subgroup analysis for different types of therapy revealed a significant effect of mindfulness-based and yoga interventions on negative symptoms, but heterogeneity within the yoga subgroup was high. Our results did not show an increase of positive symptoms (N = 1051). Our results suggest a potential for meditation-based mind-body therapies in the treatment of negative symptoms, in particular for mindfulness based approaches and to a lesser extent yoga. Limitations in the available comparisons do not allow concluding on a specific effect of these interventions. Overall, the currently available evidence remains limited and does not yet allow one to recommend mind-body therapies for the reduction of negative symptoms. However, the present findings justify further research on mind-body therapies for the treatment of negative symptoms.

A structured review of psychiatric rehabilitation for individuals living with severe mental illness within three regions of the Asia-Pacific: Implications for practice and policy

INTRODUCTION

Psychiatric rehabilitation can provide and support recovery-oriented care by assisting individuals living with severe mental illness to lead full lives. Despite a well-established evidence-base, implementation and access to these interventions in clinical practice for people with severe mental illness in the Asia-Pacific region is low. We therefore aimed to evaluate prominent themes impacting on clinical practice, policy, and the implementation of psychiatric rehabilitation across the Asia-Pacific region.

METHODS

A comprehensive review of relevant literature on psychiatric rehabilitation of three regions within the Asia-Pacific was conducted using a structured search of PubMed and other databases. Eligible articles were selected which focussed on how psychiatric rehabilitation is defined and implemented across the Asia-Pacific region, as well as the associated successes and challenges. Common themes were generated.

RESULTS

Six themes emerged: the impact of policy, legislation, and human rights; access difficulties; the important role of family; the significance of culture, religion, and spiritual beliefs; the widespread impact of stigma; and the indigenous models of excellence being developed.

DISCUSSION

Consideration of the six themes and their implications should help raise awareness of the issues involved in the provision of psychiatric rehabilitation in the Asia-Pacific region and may improve outcomes for people living with severe mental illness. Suggested strategies include: developing a shared understanding of psychiatric rehabilitation; establishing quality legislation that's well implemented; adapting evidence-based models to develop culturally appropriate services; implementing stigma reduction and empowerment-based interventions; and, ensuring coordinated action among all stakeholders, combined with effective leadership.

Self-management interventions for people with severe mental illness: systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Self-management is intended to empower individuals in their recovery by providing the skills and confidence they need to take active steps in recognising and managing their own health problems. Evidence supports such interventions in a range of long-term physical health conditions, but a recent systematic synthesis is not available for people with severe mental health problems.AimsTo evaluate the effectiveness of self-management interventions for adults with severe mental illness (SMI).

METHOD

A systematic review of randomised controlled trials was conducted. A meta-analysis of symptomatic, relapse, recovery, functioning and quality of life outcomes was conducted, using RevMan.

RESULTS

A total of 37 trials were included with 5790 participants. From the meta-analysis, self-management interventions conferred benefits in terms of reducing symptoms and length of admission, and improving functioning and quality of life both at the end of treatment and at follow-up. Overall the effect size was small to medium. The evidence for self-management interventions on readmissions was mixed. However, self-management did have a significant effect compared with control on subjective measures of recovery such as hope and empowerment at follow-up, and self-rated recovery and self-efficacy at both time points.

CONCLUSION

There is evidence that the provision of self-management interventions alongside standard care improves outcomes for people with SMI. Self-management interventions should form part of the standard package of care provided to people with SMI and should be prioritised in guidelines: research on best methods of implementing such interventions in routine practice is needed.Declaration of interestsNone.

A Randomized Controlled Trial on Mutual Support Group Intervention for Families of People With Recent-Onset Psychosis: A Four-Year Follow-Up

Introduction: Recent research in Western countries has indicated that family interventions in schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders can reduce patient relapse and improve medication compliance. Few studies have addressed Chinese and Asian populations. This study tested the long-term effects of a 9-month family-led mutual support group for Chinese people with schizophrenia in Hong Kong, compared with psycho-education and standard psychiatric care. Methods: A randomized controlled trial of Chinese families of patients with recent-onset psychosis (≤5 years of illness) was conducted between August 2012 and January 2017, with a 4-year follow-up. Two hundred and one Chinese families of adult outpatients with recent-onset psychosis were randomly selected from the computerized patient lists and randomly assigned to either mutual support, psycho-education, or standard care group (n = 70 per group). Family caregivers were mainly the parent, spouse, or child of the patients. Mutual support and psycho-education group consisted of 16 two-hour group sessions and patients participated in three sessions. The standard care group and the two treatment groups received the routine psychiatric outpatient care. Results: Patients and families in the mutual support group reported consistently greater improvements in overall functioning [family functioning, F (2, 203) = 8.13, p = 0.003; patient functioning, F (2, 203) = 6.01, p = 0.008] and reductions in duration of hospitalizations [F (2, 203) = 6.51, p = 0.005] over the 4-year follow-up. There were not any significant increases of medication dosages or service use by both the family support and psycho-education groups over time. Conclusions: The peer-led family support group can be an effective psychosocial intervention in early psychosis indicating long-term benefits on both patient and family functioning and re-hospitalizations. Clinical Trial Registration: NCT00940394: https://register.clinicaltrials.gov.