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Vita A, Nibbio G, Barlati S. Conceptualization and characterization of "primary" and "secondary" cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. Psychiatry Res 2024; 340:116126. [PMID: 39128169 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.116126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
Cognitive impairment represents one of the core features of schizophrenia, involves both neurocognition and social cognition domains, and has a significant negative impact on real-world functioning. The present review provides a framework for the conceptualization and characterization of "primary" and "secondary" cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. In this conceptualization, primary cognitive impairment can be defined as a consequence of the neurobiological alterations that underlie psychopathological manifestations of the disorder, while secondary cognitive impairment can be defined as the results of a source issue that has a negative impact on cognitive performance. Sources of secondary cognitive impairment are frequent in people with schizophrenia and include several different factors, such as positive and negative symptoms, depressive symptoms, autistic symptoms, pharmacotherapy, substance abuse, metabolic syndrome, social deprivation, and sleep disorders. It can be hypothesized that secondary cognitive impairment may be improved by effectively resolving the source issue, while primary cognitive impairment may benefit from dedicated treatment. Further research is required to confirm this hypothesis, to better characterize the distinction between primary and secondary cognitive impairment in a clinical and in a neurobiological perspective, and to evaluate the impact of systematically assessing and treating secondary cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Vita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Gabriele Nibbio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefano Barlati
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Florentin S, Rosca P, Keller S, Reuveni I, Haled R, Yakirevich Amir N, Neumark Y. Ethnic inequalities in community rehabilitation use and psychiatric hospitalizations among people with chronic psychotic disorder. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2024; 59:1235-1242. [PMID: 37615710 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-023-02551-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Community rehabilitation is crucial for the long-term treatment of people with chronic psychotic disorder. Ethnic minorities are less likely to seek care and have accessible treatment. This study examines whether the use of rehabilitation services and the relationship between rehabilitation and number of hospitalization days differ between Arabs and Jews. METHODS Data from the Israel National Psychiatric Case Register on 18,684 adults with schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorders hospitalized in 1963-2016 were merged with data from the national Mental Rehabilitation Register. Associations between the use of rehabilitation services and demographic and clinical characteristics were assessed through logistic regression modeling. Associations between ethnicity and duration of rehabilitation (housing or vocational) and annual hospitalization days during Period1: 2001-2009 and Period2: 2010-2016 were analyzed using ANOVA. RESULTS Among Jewish patients (N = 2556), 37% and 57% used rehabilitation services during Period1 and Period2, respectively, compared with 18% and 40% among Arab patients (N = 15,145) (p < 0.0001). The use of rehabilitation services was significantly higher among Jews (adjusted OR = 2.26, 95% CI 2.07-2.47). Average duration of housing and vocational rehabilitation services did not differ between Arab and Jewish patients. In both groups, duration of rehabilitation was inversely associated with annual hospitalization days. CONCLUSIONS The ethnic disparity in the use of rehabilitation services has narrowed over time, yet remains. Although fewer Arab patients use rehabilitation, Jewish and Arab benefit similarly from the services with regard to reduced hospitalization days. To further close the ethnic gap, greater efforts must be made to expand the availability of culturally appropriate rehabilitation services for the Arab minority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Florentin
- Department of Psychiatry, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel.
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Paola Rosca
- Department for the Treatment of Substance Abuse, Ministry of Health, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Shikma Keller
- Department of Psychiatry, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Inbal Reuveni
- Department of Psychiatry, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Razek Haled
- Department of Psychiatry, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department for the Treatment of Substance Abuse, Ministry of Health, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Noa Yakirevich Amir
- Department of Psychiatry, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yehuda Neumark
- Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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Vita A, Barlati S, Ceraso A, Nibbio G, Durante F, Facchi M, Deste G, Wykes T. Durability of Effects of Cognitive Remediation on Cognition and Psychosocial Functioning in Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. Am J Psychiatry 2024; 181:520-531. [PMID: 38476043 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ajp.20230396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cognitive remediation provides substantial improvements in cognitive performance and real-world functioning for people living with schizophrenia, but the durability of these benefits needs to be reassessed and better defined. The aims of this study were to provide a comprehensive assessment of the durability of the benefits of cognitive remediation for cognition and functioning in people living with schizophrenia and evaluating potential moderators of effects. METHODS A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO, and reference lists of included articles and Google Scholar were inspected. Eligible studies were randomized clinical trials of cognitive remediation in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorders in which follow-up assessments were included. Screening and data extraction were performed by at least two independent reviewers. Cohen's d was used to measure outcomes. Primary outcomes were changes in cognition and functioning from baseline to conclusion of follow-up. Moderators of the durability of effects were assessed. RESULTS Of 2,840 identified reports, 281 full texts were assessed and 130 reports on 67 studies with 5,334 participants were included. Cognitive remediation produced statistically significant positive effects that persisted at the end of follow-up in global cognition (d=0.23) and in global functioning (d=0.26). Smaller study samples and single-center studies were associated with better cognitive outcomes; longer treatment and follow-up duration, techniques for transferring cognitive gains to the real world, integration with psychiatric rehabilitation, group format of delivery, and more female participants in the sample were associated with better functional outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Cognitive remediation provides durable improvements in cognition and functioning in schizophrenia. This finding corroborates the notion that cognitive remediation should be implemented more widely in clinical and rehabilitation practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Vita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy (Vita, Barlati, Nibbio, Facchi, Deste); Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy (Vita, Barlati, Ceraso, Durante, Deste); Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, and South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, London (Wykes)
| | - Stefano Barlati
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy (Vita, Barlati, Nibbio, Facchi, Deste); Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy (Vita, Barlati, Ceraso, Durante, Deste); Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, and South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, London (Wykes)
| | - Anna Ceraso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy (Vita, Barlati, Nibbio, Facchi, Deste); Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy (Vita, Barlati, Ceraso, Durante, Deste); Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, and South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, London (Wykes)
| | - Gabriele Nibbio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy (Vita, Barlati, Nibbio, Facchi, Deste); Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy (Vita, Barlati, Ceraso, Durante, Deste); Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, and South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, London (Wykes)
| | - Francesca Durante
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy (Vita, Barlati, Nibbio, Facchi, Deste); Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy (Vita, Barlati, Ceraso, Durante, Deste); Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, and South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, London (Wykes)
| | - Michele Facchi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy (Vita, Barlati, Nibbio, Facchi, Deste); Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy (Vita, Barlati, Ceraso, Durante, Deste); Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, and South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, London (Wykes)
| | - Giacomo Deste
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy (Vita, Barlati, Nibbio, Facchi, Deste); Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy (Vita, Barlati, Ceraso, Durante, Deste); Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, and South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, London (Wykes)
| | - Til Wykes
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy (Vita, Barlati, Nibbio, Facchi, Deste); Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy (Vita, Barlati, Ceraso, Durante, Deste); Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, and South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, London (Wykes)
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Gal G, Lourie J, Roe D, Gelkopf M, Khatib A, Shadmi E. Comparing outcomes of psychiatric rehabilitation between ethnic-religious groups in Israel. Transcult Psychiatry 2024:13634615241250205. [PMID: 38766846 DOI: 10.1177/13634615241250205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Psychiatric rehabilitation for people with severe mental illness (SMI) has many documented benefits, but less is known about cultural related aspects. To date, no comparison of psychiatric rehabilitation outcomes between Israeli Jews and Israeli Arabs has been carried out. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to compare the outcome measures of Israeli Arabs and Israeli Jews consuming psychiatric rehabilitation services. As part of the Israeli Psychiatric Rehabilitation Reported Outcome Measurement project (PR-ROM), a cross-sectional study comparing different ethnic-religious groups was performed. Data is based on 6,751 pairs of psychiatric rehabilitation consumers and their service providers. The consumers filled questionnaires on quality of life (QoL) and functioning, and their providers completed mirroring instruments. The findings revealed that QoL and functioning ratings were lower among Muslim Arabs compared to Jews on both consumers' and providers' ratings. Among Muslim Arabs, differences in outcomes according to the service's location were indicated. The observed differences between Israeli Arabs and Israeli Jews with SMI in the PR-ROM point to the need for culturally adapted rehabilitation services that take into account how cultural differences may affect the benefits of such services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilad Gal
- School of Psychology, The Academic College of Tel Aviv-Yaffo, Israel
| | - Joseph Lourie
- School of Psychology, The Academic College of Tel Aviv-Yaffo, Israel
| | - David Roe
- Department of Community Mental Health, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Israel
| | - Marc Gelkopf
- Department of Community Mental Health, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Israel
| | - Anwar Khatib
- Department of Community Mental Health, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Israel
- Department of Social Work, Zefat Academic College, Israel
| | - Efrat Shadmi
- The Cheryl Spencer Nursing Department of Nursing, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Israel
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Tsoli F, Botsari IA, Tsianeli A, Menti N, Kontoudi P, Peritogiannis V. Difficult-to-Engage Patients with Severe Mental Illness in Rural Community Settings: Results of the Greek Hybrid Assertive Community Treatment Model of Mental Healthcare. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2660. [PMID: 38731189 PMCID: PMC11084530 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13092660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Modified Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) in rural settings may be effective in the care of patients with severe mental illness (SMI) that are difficult to engage in community care. The objective of the present study was to explore the impact of the care by a hybrid ACT team on SMI patients' hospitalizations, length of hospital stay, symptomatology and functioning in a rural community treatment setting in Greece. Methods: The hybrid ACT team is an expansion of the services of the well-established generic Mobile Mental Health Unit in a rural area of Northwest Greece, and delivers home-based care for patients with SMI. This was a 3-year prospective, mirror image, pre-post observational study. Patients' symptomatology, functioning and general outcome were measured with the use of the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), the Global Assessment of Functioning Scale (GAF), and the Health of the Nation Outcome Scale (HοNOS). Results: The mean age of the 23 enrolled patients was 52.4 years and the mean age of disease onset was 23.5 years, with a mean number of hospitalizations 10.74. Over the 16-month follow-up patients' hospitalizations, both voluntary and involuntary, had been significantly reduced by almost 80%. Length of hospital stay had been significantly reduced by 87%, whereas patients' functioning and symptomatology had been significantly improved, by 17% and 14.5%, respectively. Conclusions: The model of hybrid ACT in rural areas in Greece may be effective in the treatment of difficult-to-engage patients with SMI and may improve patients' outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fotini Tsoli
- Mobile Mental Health Unit of the Prefectures of Ioannina and Thesprotia, Society for the Promotion of Mental Health in Epirus, 45445 Ioannina, Greece; (F.T.); (A.T.); (N.M.); (P.K.)
| | - Ioanna Athina Botsari
- Early Intervention in Psychosis Unit, University Mental Health Research Institute, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Agnes Tsianeli
- Mobile Mental Health Unit of the Prefectures of Ioannina and Thesprotia, Society for the Promotion of Mental Health in Epirus, 45445 Ioannina, Greece; (F.T.); (A.T.); (N.M.); (P.K.)
| | - Nefeli Menti
- Mobile Mental Health Unit of the Prefectures of Ioannina and Thesprotia, Society for the Promotion of Mental Health in Epirus, 45445 Ioannina, Greece; (F.T.); (A.T.); (N.M.); (P.K.)
| | - Panagiota Kontoudi
- Mobile Mental Health Unit of the Prefectures of Ioannina and Thesprotia, Society for the Promotion of Mental Health in Epirus, 45445 Ioannina, Greece; (F.T.); (A.T.); (N.M.); (P.K.)
| | - Vaios Peritogiannis
- Mobile Mental Health Unit of the Prefectures of Ioannina and Thesprotia, Society for the Promotion of Mental Health in Epirus, 45445 Ioannina, Greece; (F.T.); (A.T.); (N.M.); (P.K.)
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Barlati S, Nibbio G, Vita A. Evidence-based psychosocial interventions in schizophrenia: a critical review. Curr Opin Psychiatry 2024; 37:131-139. [PMID: 38410981 PMCID: PMC10990032 DOI: 10.1097/yco.0000000000000925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders (SSD) are severe conditions that frequently produce significant impairment in cognitive performance, social skills and psychosocial functioning. As pharmacological treatment alone often provides only limited improvements on these outcomes, several psychosocial interventions are employed in psychiatric rehabilitation practice to improve of real-world outcomes of people living with SSD: the present review aims to provide a critical overview of these treatments, focusing on those that show consistent evidence of effectiveness. RECENT FINDINGS Several recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses have investigated in detail the acceptability, the effectiveness on several specific outcomes and moderators of response of different psychosocial interventions, and several individual studies have provided novel insight on their implementation and combination in rehabilitation practice. SUMMARY Cognitive remediation, metacognitive training, social skills training, psychoeducation, family interventions, cognitive behavioral therapy, physical exercise and lifestyle interventions, supported employment and some other interventions can be fully considered as evidence-based treatments in SSD. Psychosocial interventions could be of particular usefulness in the context of early intervention services. Future research should focus on developing newer interventions, on better understanding the barriers and the facilitators of their implementation in clinical practice, and exploring the opportunities provided by novel technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Barlati
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Gabriele Nibbio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia
| | - Antonio Vita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Bakola M, Peritogiannis V, Kitsou KS, Gourzis P, Hyphantis T, Jelastopulu E. Length of hospital stay in involuntary admissions in Greece: a 10-year retrospective observational study. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2024:10.1007/s00127-024-02653-x. [PMID: 38684516 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-024-02653-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The treatment of mental disorders has shifted from inpatient wards to community-based settings in recent years, but some patients may still have to be admitted to inpatient wards, sometimes involuntarily. It is important to maintain the length of hospital stay (LoS) as short as possible while still providing adequate care. The present study aimed to explore the factors associated with the LoS in involuntarily admitted psychiatric patients. METHODS A ten-year retrospective chart review of 332 patients admitted involuntarily to the inpatient psychiatric ward of the General University Hospital of Ioannina, Northwestern Greece, between 2008 and 2017 was conducted. RESULTS The mean LoS was 23.8 (SD = 33.7) days and was relatively stable over the years. Longer-stay hospitalization was associated with schizophrenia-spectrum disorder diagnosis, previous hospitalizations and the use of mechanical restraint, whereas patients in residential care experienced significantly longer LoS (52.6 days) than those living with a caregiver (23.5 days) or alone (19.4 days). Older age at disease onset was associated with shorter LoS, whereas no statistically significant differences were observed with regard to gender. CONCLUSION While some of our findings were in line with recent findings from other countries, others could not be replicated. It seems that multiple factors influence LoS and the identification of these factors could help clinicians and policy makers to design more targeted and cost-effective interventions. The optimization of LoS in involuntary admissions could improve patients' outcomes and lead to more efficient use of resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Bakola
- Department of Public Health, Medical School, University of Patras, Rio, 26500, Patras, Greece
| | - Vaios Peritogiannis
- Mobile Mental Health Unit of the Prefectures of Ioannina and Thesprotia, Society for the Promotion of Mental Health in Epirus, Ioannina, Greece
| | | | - Philippos Gourzis
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Thomas Hyphantis
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Eleni Jelastopulu
- Department of Public Health, Medical School, University of Patras, Rio, 26500, Patras, Greece.
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Vita A, Barlati S, Deste G, Nibbio G, Penn DL, Pinkham AE, McIntyre RS, Harvey PD. Life engagement in people living with schizophrenia: predictors and correlates of patient life engagement in a large sample of people living in the community. Psychol Med 2023; 53:7943-7952. [PMID: 37522514 PMCID: PMC10755242 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291723002106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Life engagement represents a holistic concept that encompasses outcomes reflecting life-fulfilment, well-being and participation in valued and meaningful activities, which is recently gaining attention and scientific interest. Despite its conceptual importance and its relevance, life engagement represents a largely unexplored domain in schizophrenia. The aims of the present study were to independently assess correlates and predictors of patient life engagement in a large and well-characterized sample of schizophrenia patients. METHODS To assess the impact of different demographic, clinical, cognitive and functional parameters on life engagement in a large sample of patients with schizophrenia, data from the social cognition psychometric evaluation project were analyzed. RESULTS Overall schizophrenia and depressive symptom severity, premorbid IQ, neurocognitive performance, social cognition performance both in the emotion processing and theory of mind domains, functional capacity, social skills performance and real-world functioning in different areas all emerged as correlates of patient life engagement. Greater symptom severity and greater impairment in real-world interpersonal relationships, social skills, functional capacity and work outcomes emerged as individual predictors of greater limitations in life engagement. CONCLUSIONS Life engagement in people living with schizophrenia represents a holistic and complex construct, with several different clinical, cognitive and functional correlates. These features represent potential treatment targets to improve the clinical condition and also facilitate the process of recovery and the overall well-being of people living with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Vita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefano Barlati
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Giacomo Deste
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Gabriele Nibbio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - David L. Penn
- Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- School of Psychology, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Amy E. Pinkham
- Department of Psychology, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA
| | - Roger S. McIntyre
- Department of Psychiatry and Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Brain and Discovery Foundation (BCDF), Toronto, Canada
| | - Philip D. Harvey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Research Service, Miami VA Healthcare System, Miami, FL, USA
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Dark F, Dux B, Jensen J, Goh HT, Harvey C. Developments in rehabilitation psychiatry within the RANZCP and the creation of a mental health rehabilitation curriculum. Australas Psychiatry 2023; 31:610-612. [PMID: 37681502 DOI: 10.1177/10398562231202124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This paper describes the initial development of a mental health rehabilitation curriculum for Australian mental health settings and for psychiatrists and trainees wishing to develop specialist skills in mental health rehabilitation. METHOD Members of the Section of Social Cultural and Rehabilitation Psychiatry (SSCRP) established an expert working group under the auspices of the RANZCP. Existing college training resources were reviewed, and a gap analysis was conducted to guide development of new training modules. RESULTS A tiered curriculum structure was created that allows a staged development of rehabilitation knowledge, skills and attitudes required to be a specialist in mental health rehabilitation. An introductory module was developed to establish the principles of modern mental health rehabilitation. Most of the curriculum was based on existing resources that are relevant to rehabilitation practice. Finalisation of a draft for review was undertaken with the assistance of the RANZCP education project advisors and curriculum experts. CONCLUSIONS As a national body responsible for training psychiatric registrars and maintenance of training for psychiatrists, the RANZCP is well situated to train the specialist medical mental health workforce required to lead rehabilitation services in Australia. The RANZCP mental health rehabilitation curriculum will provide a platform to train the skilled workforce that will enable these services to be fully realised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances Dark
- Metro South Addiction and Mental Health Services, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia; and School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Bree Dux
- Independent Learning Consultant and Instructional Designer, Point Cook, VIC, Australia
| | - Joanne Jensen
- The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Huan-Tzin Goh
- Pathways to Community Living Initiative Stage 2, Western Sydney Local Health District NSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Carol Harvey
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; and Northern Health, Psychosocial Research Centre, Coburg, VIC, Australia
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Chiappini S, Di Carlo F, Mosca A, d’Andrea G, Di Paolo M, Lorenzini C, Lupica MG, Sampogna G, Pettorruso M, Fiorillo A, Martinotti G. Efficacy of Psychosocial and Psychological Interventions in Addition to Drug Therapy to Improve Global Functioning of Inpatients with Schizophrenia Spectrum and Mood Disorders: A Real-World Observational Study. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2023; 19:1887-1897. [PMID: 37667738 PMCID: PMC10475300 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s418627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction and Aim Psychotic and mood disorders are associated with significant functional impairment, premature mortality, physical morbidity, and great social and economic burden. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of psychosocial, psychological, and rehabilitative interventions implemented in an Italian psychiatric inpatient facility, with a focus on patients with schizophrenia spectrum versus those with mood disorders. Methods A retrospective observational study was conducted in the psychiatric hospital Villa Maria Pia in Rome, Italy, during 2022. Patients with an established diagnosis of schizophrenia spectrum and mood disorder (ICD-9-CM) were assessed on admission (T0) and at the end of treatment (T1), using the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) and the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF). Interventions involved a multidisciplinary team and included individual and group activities. The t-test for independent samples was used to compare continuous variables between groups and Spearman correlation coefficient to calculate correlations between variables. Results The study sample consisted of 141 patients, the majority of them being adults (51.3 years ± 12.4) men (F/M= 68/73). Among them, 85 patients (60.3%) actively engaged in psychosocial and rehabilitative interventions and, compared to non-participating individuals, they showed lower functioning and symptoms at discharge (delta GAF was significantly higher among patients who had taken part in the psychosocial activities, t = -2.095; p = 0.038). Considering the index computed (n of interventions/days of hospitalization), the number of psychosocial activities was positively correlated with the improvement in patients' functioning in the sample taking part in activities (r = 0.272, p = 0.012), especially with psychotherapy and support groups (r = 0.202, p = 0.017 and r = 0.188, p = 0.025, respectively). Splitting the total sample into schizophrenia-spectrum disorder (N = 37) and mood disorder (N = 48) groups, the positive correlations between GAF improvement and participation in psychosocial activities were confirmed only in the schizophrenia-spectrum group. These correlations were not significant for symptomatology (BPRS) either in the total or the individual group. Conclusion Evidence from our study suggests that inpatient rehabilitation can be effective and useful for people with severe mental disorders. Further investigations are needed to better understand its effectiveness on improving quality of life and social functioning in the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Chiappini
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, ‘G. D’Annunzio’ University, Chieti, Italy
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Francesco Di Carlo
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, ‘G. D’Annunzio’ University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Alessio Mosca
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, ‘G. D’Annunzio’ University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giacomo d’Andrea
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, ‘G. D’Annunzio’ University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Mariapia Di Paolo
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, ‘G. D’Annunzio’ University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Chiara Lorenzini
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, ‘G. D’Annunzio’ University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Lupica
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, ‘G. D’Annunzio’ University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Gaia Sampogna
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Mauro Pettorruso
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, ‘G. D’Annunzio’ University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Andrea Fiorillo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Martinotti
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, ‘G. D’Annunzio’ University, Chieti, Italy
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
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11
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Newsome AM. Exercise Promotion Practices among Mental Health Professionals: A Scoping Review. Issues Ment Health Nurs 2023:1-11. [PMID: 37315310 DOI: 10.1080/01612840.2023.2212770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Mental health professionals (MHPs) have a unique opportunity to integrate PA and exercise promotion into clinical care. This scoping review employed the information-motivation-behavioral Skills (IMB) model to examine the exercise promotion practices of MHP. An electronic search of four major databases from 2007 to August 2020 was conducted and results were reported using PRISMA. Seventeen studies were included where the variables of interest were knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs regarding exercise promotion. MHP expressed a need for additional training and the integration of exercise specialists to care for the physical health of patients. Practitioners need additional education to understand the guidelines for exercise prescription for individuals with SMI and the role exercise could have in improving the quality of life for their patients. Findings were conceptualized utilizing the IMB model to inform future quantitative measures and health behavior interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A'Naja M Newsome
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
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12
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Vita A, Barlati S, Ceraso A, Deste G, Nibbio G, Wykes T. Acceptability of cognitive remediation for schizophrenia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Psychol Med 2023; 53:3661-3671. [PMID: 35257646 PMCID: PMC10277755 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291722000319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acceptability is an important factor for predicting intervention use and potential treatment outcomes in psychosocial interventions. Cognitive remediation (CR) improves cognition and functioning in people with a diagnosis of schizophrenia, but its acceptability, and the impact of participants and treatment characteristics, remain to be investigated. Few studies provide a direct measure of acceptability, but treatment drop-out rates are often available and represent a valid surrogate. METHOD The systematic search conducted for the most comprehensive CR outcomes database for schizophrenia was updated in December 2020. Eligible studies were randomized clinical trials comparing CR with any other control condition in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorders and that also reported drop-out in treatment and control arms separately. Acceptability was measured as odd-ratios (OR) of drop-out. RESULTS Of 2119 identified reports, 151 studies, reporting 169 comparisons between CR and control interventions with 10 477 participants were included in the analyses. The overall rate of drop-out was 16.58% for CR programs and 15.21% for control conditions. In the meta-analysis, no difference emerged between CR interventions and controls [OR 1.10, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.96-1.25, p = 0.177]. Factors improving acceptability were: inpatient only recruitment, participants with fewer years of education and lower premorbid IQ, the presence of all CR core elements, and the presence of techniques to transfer cognitive gains into real-world functioning. CONCLUSIONS CR for people diagnosed with schizophrenia is effective and has a good acceptability profile, similar to that of other evidence-based psychosocial interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Vita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefano Barlati
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Anna Ceraso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Giacomo Deste
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Gabriele Nibbio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Til Wykes
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, Denmark Hill, London, UK
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13
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Altman RAE, Tan EJ, Rossell SL. Factors Impacting Access and Engagement of Cognitive Remediation Therapy for People with Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY. REVUE CANADIENNE DE PSYCHIATRIE 2023; 68:139-151. [PMID: 36448242 PMCID: PMC9974655 DOI: 10.1177/07067437221129073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Neurocognitive deficits are central in schizophrenia. Cognitive remediation has proven effective in alleviating these deficits, with medium effect sizes. However, sizeable attrition rates are reported, with the reasons still uncertain. Furthermore, cognitive remediation is not part of routine mental health care. We conducted a systematic review to investigate factors that influence access and engagement of cognitive remediation in schizophrenia. METHODS We systematically searched the PubMed, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases for peer-reviewed articles including a cognitive remediation arm, access, and engagement data, and participants with schizophrenia spectrum disorders aged 17-65 years old. Duplicates and studies without a distinct cognitive remediation component, protocol papers, single case studies, case series, and reviews/meta-analyses were excluded. RESULTS We included 67 studies that reported data on access and engagement, and extracted quantitative and qualitative data. Access data were limited, with most interventions delivered on-site, to outpatients, and in middle- to high-income countries. We found a median dropout rate of 14.29%. Only a small number of studies explored differences between dropouts and completers (n = 5), and engagement factors (n = 13). Dropouts had higher negative symptomatology and baseline self-efficacy, and lower baseline neurocognitive functioning and intrinsic motivation compared to completers. The engagement was positively associated with intrinsic motivation, self-efficacy, perceived usefulness, educational level, premorbid intelligence quotient, baseline neurocognitive functioning, some neurocognitive outcomes, and therapeutic alliance; and negatively associated with subjective cognitive complaints. Qualitative results showed good acceptability of cognitive remediation, with some areas for improvement. CONCLUSIONS Overall, access and engagement results are scarce and heterogeneous. Further investigations of cognitive remediation for inpatients, as well as remote delivery, are needed. Future clinical trials should systematically explore attrition and related factors. Determining influential factors of access and engagement will help improve the implementation and efficacy of cognitive remediation, and thus the recovery of people with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalie Ariane Eva Altman
- Centre for Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Eric Josiah Tan
- Centre for Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Mental Health, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Susan Lee Rossell
- Centre for Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Mental Health, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
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14
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Occupational evaluation of community-based psychiatric rehabilitation outcomes in individuals with severe mental illnesses: A ten-year retrospective study. Asian J Psychiatr 2023; 81:103450. [PMID: 36630832 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2023.103450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a lack of research on the effect of community-based psychiatric rehabilitation programs (CBPRs) in individuals with severe mental illness. This research used data from a retrospective study to examine the effect of a CBPR in a community rehabilitation center. MATERIALS AND METHODS Clinical outcomes measures from a retrospective study were collected. Outcome measures were the Allen Cognitive Level Screen assessment, Purdue Pegboard Test, Chu's Attention Test, and Activities of Daily Living Rating Scale-III (ADLRS-III) before and immediately after 12 months of intervention. RESULTS The 141 participants with mental illness were an average age of 35.29 years (SD = 8.75). The retrospective review of medical records showed 46 people dropped out within 12 months, and 95 people continued to participate in the rehabilitation program for 1 year. After 1 year of community rehabilitation, there was a trend for the participants who completed the intervention to improve on the ADLRS-III, Purdue Pegboard Test, and Chu's Attention Test. Participants who performed better on the occupational assessment were more likely to transit to the employment status. CONCLUSION This study found the benefits of CBPR in work-related intervention for people with mental illness. Occupational assessments are relevant for studying changes in functional outcomes in people with mental illness receiving community-based rehabilitation.
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15
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Impact of Physical Exercise Alone or in Combination with Cognitive Remediation on Cognitive Functions in People with Schizophrenia: A Qualitative Critical Review. Brain Sci 2023; 13:brainsci13020320. [PMID: 36831863 PMCID: PMC9954055 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13020320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Physical exercise and cognitive remediation represent the psychosocial interventions with the largest basis of evidence attesting their effectiveness in improving cognitive performance in people living with schizophrenia according to recent international guidance. The aims of this review are to provide an overview of the literature on physical exercise as a treatment for cognitive impairment in schizophrenia and of the studies that have combined physical exercise and cognitive remediation as an integrated rehabilitation intervention. Nine meta-analyses and systematic reviews on physical exercise alone and seven studies on interventions combining physical exercise and cognitive remediation are discussed. The efficacy of physical exercise in improving cognitive performance in people living with schizophrenia is well documented, but more research focused on identifying moderators of participants response and optimal modalities of delivery is required. Studies investigating the effectiveness of integrated interventions report that combining physical exercise and cognitive remediation provides superior benefits and quicker improvements compared to cognitive remediation alone, but most studies included small samples and did not explore long-term effects. While physical exercise and its combination with cognitive remediation appear to represent effective treatments for cognitive impairment in people living with schizophrenia, more evidence is currently needed to better understand how to implement these treatments in psychiatric rehabilitation practice.
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16
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Peraire M, Guinot C, Villar M, Benito A, Echeverria I, Haro G. Profile changes in admissions to a psychiatric hospitalisation unit over 15 years (2006-2021), considering the impact of the pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2. Psychiatry Res 2023; 320:115003. [PMID: 36571896 PMCID: PMC9759458 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.115003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this current work was to explore whether modification of the diagnostic criteria upon the publication of the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic had influenced the diagnostic and sociodemographic profiles of mental health admissions. For that purpose, we designed an observational, longitudinal, and retrospective study of the data recorded in the discharge reports of the Brief Hospitalization Unit at Castellon (Spain), between January 2006 and December 2021. The sample consisted of 7,037 participants, with a mean age of 42.1 years. The mean age of admissions, number of women, and presentation of affective disorders, addictions, and dementias all increased significantly during the DSM-5 period. Beyond diagnoses, the reduction in readmissions before the pandemic could be attributed to the use of long-acting injectable antipsychotics. In contrast, the pandemic did not change the percentage of readmissions or the volume of admissions. Also, during the pandemic period, the significant results obtained indicate that the average stay was reduced, affective disorders decreased, and addictions increased. Therefore, clinicians should consider these diagnostic and sociodemographic fluctuations when adapting clinical care, taking into account gender perspective, ageing of patients and increasing of dual and affective disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Peraire
- TXP Research Group, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Spain; Department of Mental Health, Consorcio Hospitalario Provincial de Castellón, Spain.
| | - C Guinot
- Department of Mental Health, Consorcio Hospitalario Provincial de Castellón, Spain
| | - M Villar
- Department of Mental Health, Consorcio Hospitalario Provincial de Castellón, Spain
| | - A Benito
- TXP Research Group, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Spain; Torrent Mental Health Unit, Spain
| | - I Echeverria
- TXP Research Group, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Spain; Department of Mental Health, Consorcio Hospitalario Provincial de Castellón, Spain
| | - G Haro
- TXP Research Group, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Spain; Department of Mental Health, Consorcio Hospitalario Provincial de Castellón, Spain
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17
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Cafaro R, Rosti CAM, Cerolini L, Varinelli A, Charitos S, Magnotti R, Benatti B, Dell’Osso B, Viganò CA. Gender impact on the outcome of rehabilitation programs in psychiatry: Brief report from a metropolitan residential rehabilitative service. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1145940. [PMID: 37113552 PMCID: PMC10126770 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1145940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Differences based on gender in the presentation and outcome of many psychiatric conditions have been highlighted in the past years. Moreover, women are often underrepresented in research samples, thus leading to a poorer understanding and addressing of their needs. As regards psychiatric rehabilitation, few studies have focused on the influence of gender on the outcomes of rehabilitation programs. Objectives This study aimed to analyze the impact of gender on socio-demographic and clinical characteristics, as well as on main rehabilitation outcomes, in a sample of subjects undergoing rehabilitation programs in a metropolitan residential service. Methods We collected socio-demographic, clinical variables and rehabilitation outcomes of all subjects discharged from the metropolitan residential rehabilitative service of the Luigi Sacco Hospital in Milan, Italy, from January 2015 to December 2021. Gender differences were analyzed through t-test and chi-square for continuous and categorical variables, respectively. Results In a total sample of 129 subjects equally distributed for gender (50.4% women), all subjects improved after their rehabilitation program, as measured through specific psychometric scales. However, women had a higher proportion of discharges to their own household (52.3% vs. 25% of men). They also showed higher educational status (53.8% completed high school vs. 31.3% of men). Clinically, they showed longer duration of untreated illness (3.6 ± 7.31 vs. 1.06 ± 2.35 years) and lower frequency of substance use disorders compared to men (6.4% vs. 35.9%). Conclusion The main result of this study shows, in light of an equal improvement in psychopathological and psychosocial functioning after the rehabilitation program, better outcomes in women compared to men, with a higher frequency of return to their own household after the completion of a rehabilitation program compared to men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Cafaro
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Ada Maria Rosti
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Lucia Cerolini
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Varinelli
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Socrates Charitos
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberta Magnotti
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Beatrice Benatti
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Bernardo Dell’Osso
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
- Department of Health Sciences, "Aldo Ravelli" Center for Neurotechnology and Brain Therapeutic, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Caterina A. Viganò
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Caterina A. Viganò,
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18
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Viganò C, Ariu C, Barbieri D, Goffredi A, Ferrara L, Rea F, Barlati S, Vita A. Psychiatric rehabilitation patterns in Italy: Results from the Italian Society of Psychosocial Rehabilitation (SIRP) survey. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1130811. [PMID: 36911120 PMCID: PMC9992193 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1130811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Psychiatric rehabilitation can be considered a bidirectional technique, designed to allow patients to achieve their personal target, focusing on the individuals' strengths and challenges related to these targets and also on the community organizations in which they will live them out. Unfortunately, psychiatric rehabilitation is too often not considered a first line treatment. Moreover, rehabilitation has been confused with a generic and rough practice, consisting of extemporary actions and aimless entertainments designed to fill "the time passing". METHODS The aim of this study was to increase the knowledge and awareness about the state of the art of different systems of management and funding of psychosocial rehabilitation in the Italian "real-world" rehabilitative settings, using a specifically developed questionnaire. RESULTS The data obtained are positive for some aspects of the rehabilitation interventions, in particular for the use of validated tools for the evaluation and revision of projects and for the trend to work on a team, even though the scarcity of evidence-based rehabilitation interventions applied in Italian psychiatric services is less encouraging. CONCLUSION This survey presents, at least partially, the "real-world" of rehabilitation in Italy so that we can lay the foundations for the definition of an updated, validated and shared network of what is implemented in the context of psychiatric rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Viganò
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Psychiatry 2 Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Cassandra Ariu
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Deborah Barbieri
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessia Goffredi
- ASST Ovest Milanese, Ospedale Vecchio di Legnano, Legnano, Italy
| | - Luca Ferrara
- Psychiatry 2 Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Federico Rea
- National Centre for Healthcare Research & Pharmacoepidemiology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Barlati
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Antonio Vita
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Primary and secondary negative symptoms severity and the use of psychiatric care resources in schizophrenia spectrum disorders: A 3-year follow-up longitudinal retrospective study. Schizophr Res 2022; 250:31-38. [PMID: 36252294 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2022.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Negative symptoms represent one of the core features of schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD), strongly correlated with low remission rates, poor real-world functioning, and worse quality of life. Despite the body of evidence attesting the role of negative symptoms in determining worse outcomes in SSD, few studies have directly investigated their impact on the use of psychiatric services and even fewer research have examined the differential impact between primary versus secondary negative symptoms. The present study aims to investigate whether SSD subjects with high levels of primary and of secondary negative symptoms at an index hospitalization show a different use of psychiatric services in the subsequent 3 years. A total of 429 subjects were included in the study. Results show that SSD patients with high levels of negative symptoms are characterized by an overall greater use of high-cost resources, with more admissions in the hospital acute care psychiatric ward and in high intensity residential inpatient services. Moreover, while primary negative symptoms appear to play a role in determining a greater use of psychiatric services, high levels of secondary negative symptoms are associated with an increased use of most psychiatric resources, especially of high-cost ones. In conclusion, negative symptoms have a relevant impact on the pattern of psychiatric resources utilization in SSD patients. While scientific research continues to look for effective treatments for primary negative symptoms, clinicians should pay particular attention to secondary negative symptoms, as these also have important consequences but may benefit from appropriate treatment.
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Pedrosa B, Cardoso G, Azeredo-Lopes S, Aluh D, Grigaitė U, Dias M, Silva M, Caldas de Almeida J. Experiences of care perceived by users of supported accommodations for people with serious mental disorders: Can they impact quality of life? Int J Soc Psychiatry 2022; 69:626-638. [PMID: 36300907 DOI: 10.1177/00207640221127928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To understand if supported accommodations (SA) are promoting the recovery of people with serious mental disorders, quality of life (QoL) is an important outcome. This study aimed to analyse the association between QoL and experiences of care in general and to identify specific experiences of care that are associated with QoL in users of SA. METHODS A random sample of users of 42 SA was interviewed to obtain standardized measures of QoL and personal experiences of care. The sample was also characterized according to sociodemographic and clinical aspects. Linear regressions models analysed the association between QoL and experiences of care, adjusting for potential confounders. Results include estimated regression coefficients, corresponding 95% confidence intervals and p-values. RESULTS The number of users interviewed was 272. The median QoL was 4.9 (2.3-6.8) out of 7. Although 84.9% of users were satisfied with the care received, only 16.2% felt involved in their treatment. Feeling safe (β = .73; 95% CI [0.22-1.24], p = .006) and having privacy (β = .42; 95% CI [0.09-0.75], p = .014) influenced QoL. Involvement in care (β = .44; 95% CI [0.13-0.74], p = .006), safety and privacy (β = .72; 95% CI [0.44-0.99], p = 8.38e-07) and user-professional relationship (β = .42; 95% CI [0.14-0.69], p = .003) were also associated with QoL. CONCLUSIONS Feeling safe, having privacy, feeling involved in care and having good user-professional relationships influence the QoL of users. These findings have implications from the political and economic level to the organizational and individual levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Pedrosa
- Lisbon Institute of Global Mental Health, Lisbon, Portugal.,Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS
- FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa; Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Graça Cardoso
- Lisbon Institute of Global Mental Health, Lisbon, Portugal.,Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS
- FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa; Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sofia Azeredo-Lopes
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS
- FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa; Lisboa, Portugal.,Department of Statistics and Operational Research, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Deborah Aluh
- Lisbon Institute of Global Mental Health, Lisbon, Portugal.,Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS
- FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa; Lisboa, Portugal.,Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Management, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
| | - Ugnė Grigaitė
- Lisbon Institute of Global Mental Health, Lisbon, Portugal.,Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS
- FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa; Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Margarida Dias
- Lisbon Institute of Global Mental Health, Lisbon, Portugal.,Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS
- FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa; Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Manuela Silva
- Lisbon Institute of Global Mental Health, Lisbon, Portugal.,Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS
- FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa; Lisboa, Portugal
| | - José Caldas de Almeida
- Lisbon Institute of Global Mental Health, Lisbon, Portugal.,Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS
- FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa; Lisboa, Portugal
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21
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Tan BL, Shi J, Yang S, Loh H, Ng D, Choo C, Medalia A. The use of virtual reality and augmented reality in psychosocial rehabilitation for adults with neurodevelopmental disorders: A systematic review. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:1055204. [PMID: 36590624 PMCID: PMC9794993 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1055204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Virtual reality and augmented reality have been used in psychosocial rehabilitation for adults with neurodevelopmental disorders in recent years, to provide functional training in a scaffolded and appealing manner. This systematic review attempted to evaluate (1) how virtual reality or augmented reality technology was deployed, when used as an intervention for adults with neurodevelopmental disorders; and (2) how virtual or augmented reality-assisted psychosocial rehabilitation programs impacted on the functional domains of community living, employment and social participation. METHODS The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines was adopted and a search of publications between June 2012 and June 2022 was carried out. The target groups were adults with schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorders, autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disabilities and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Interventions that targeted at least one functional domain were included. RESULTS The database search generated 1,267 records and 38 studies met the inclusion criteria. Three studies utilized augmented reality while the rest utilized virtual reality. The virtual scenarios were displayed in various ways, such as head-mounted displays, computer screens, mobile devices and cave rooms. A few studies also used features such as speech recognition, eye tracking and motion-capture device to provide real-time feedback to participants during rehabilitation. Eleven studies reported interventions that addressed community living, 15 studies addressed vocational skills and nine studies trained participants in social skills or social cognition. Three studies sought to improve quality of life using virtual scenarios to expose participants to various situations. Majority of these studies reported preliminary promising results, with improvement in the functional domains addressed. However, several studies had small sample sizes and many single-arm pretest-posttest studies were assessed to be of serious or critical risk of bias. CONCLUSION Virtual reality and augmented reality are deployed in various ways to augment psychosocial rehabilitation for adults with neurodevelopmental disorders. Most interventions target skills training or strategy learning in the areas of community living, work and social participation. Preliminary positive findings of their effects on functional performance were reported. Larger and robust studies using ecologically valid outcome measures will be needed to establish their effects on real-world functional outcomes. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION identifier: CRD42022335443.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhing-Leet Tan
- Health and Social Sciences Cluster, Singapore Institute of Technology, Singapore, Singapore.,Occupational Therapy Department, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jing Shi
- Health and Social Sciences Cluster, Singapore Institute of Technology, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Suyi Yang
- Occupational Therapy Department, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hannah Loh
- Occupational Therapy Department, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Desiree Ng
- Occupational Therapy Department, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Cherie Choo
- Occupational Therapy Department, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Alice Medalia
- Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, United States
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22
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Vita A, Gaebel W, Mucci A, Sachs G, Barlati S, Giordano GM, Nibbio G, Nordentoft M, Wykes T, Galderisi S. European Psychiatric Association guidance on treatment of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. Eur Psychiatry 2022; 65:e57. [PMID: 36059103 PMCID: PMC9532218 DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2022.2315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although cognitive impairment is a core symptom of schizophrenia related to poorer outcomes in different functional domains, it still remains a major therapeutic challenge. To date, no comprehensive treatment guidelines for cognitive impairment in schizophrenia are implemented. Methods The aim of the present guidance paper is to provide a comprehensive meta-review of the current available evidence-based treatments for cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. The guidance is structured into three sections: pharmacological treatment, psychosocial interventions, and somatic treatments. Results Based on the reviewed evidence, this European Psychiatric Association guidance recommends an appropriate pharmacological management as a fundamental starting point in the treatment of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. In particular, second-generation antipsychotics are recommended for their favorable cognitive profile compared to first-generation antipsychotics, although no clear superiority of a single second-generation antipsychotic has currently been found. Anticholinergic and benzodiazepine burdens should be kept to a minimum, considering the negative impact on cognitive functioning. Among psychosocial interventions, cognitive remediation and physical exercise are recommended for the treatment of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. Noninvasive brain stimulation techniques could be taken into account as add-on therapy. Conclusions Overall, there is definitive progress in the field, but further research is needed to develop specific treatments for cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. The dissemination of this guidance paper may promote the development of shared guidelines concerning the treatment of cognitive functions in schizophrenia, with the purpose to improve the quality of care and to achieve recovery in this population.
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23
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Vita A, Gaebel W, Mucci A, Sachs G, Erfurth A, Barlati S, Zanca F, Giordano GM, Birkedal Glenthøj L, Nordentoft M, Galderisi S. European Psychiatric Association guidance on assessment of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. Eur Psychiatry 2022; 65:e58. [PMID: 36059109 PMCID: PMC9532219 DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2022.2316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Impairment in a wide range of cognitive abilities has been consistently reported in individuals with schizophrenia. Both neurocognitive and social cognitive deficits are thought to underlie severe functional disabilities associated with schizophrenia. Despite the key role in schizophrenia outcome, cognition is still poorly assessed in both research and clinical settings. Methods In this guidance paper, we provide a systematic review of the scientific literature and elaborate several recommendations for the assessment of cognitive functions in schizophrenia both in research settings and in real-world clinical practice. Results Expert consensus and systematic reviews provided guidance for the optimal assessment of cognitive functions in schizophrenia. Based on the reviewed evidence, we recommend a comprehensive and systematic assessment of neurocognitive and social cognitive domains in schizophrenia, in all phases of the disorder, as well as in subjects at risk to develop psychosis. This European Psychiatric Association guidance recommends not only the use of observer reports but also self-reports and interview-based cognitive assessment tools. The guidance also provides a systematic review of the state of the art of assessment in the first episode of psychosis patients and in individuals at risk for psychosis. Conclusion The comprehensive review of the evidence and the recommendations might contribute to advance the field, allowing a better cognitive assessment, and avoiding overlaps with other psychopathological dimensions. The dissemination of this guidance paper may promote the development of shared guidelines concerning the assessment of cognitive functions in schizophrenia, with the purpose to improve the quality of care and to obtain recovery.
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24
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Vita A, Barlati S, Bellomo A, Poli PF, Masi G, Nobili L, Serafini G, Zuddas A, Vicari S. Patterns of Care for Adolescent With Schizophrenia: A Delphi-Based Consensus Study. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:844098. [PMID: 35432022 PMCID: PMC9007083 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.844098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current conceptualization of schizophrenia as neurodevelopmental disorder should lead to innovative public health policies in terms of a reorganization of the mental health care systems, particularly in the transition from adolescence to adulthood, to reduce personal, familiar, and social costs and burdens. The purpose of the project was to perform a survey among a panel of Italian schizophrenia experts, to share evidence-based information on adolescent schizophrenia and explore the degree of consensus among professionals in the following four macro-areas: early diagnosis; pharmacological treatment; health care system organization and transition process from adolescent to adulthood; and psychosocial interventions. METHODS The consensus process consisted of a two-step web-based Delphi method, which took place between June and November 2021. The survey was developed by a panel of four psychiatrists and four child neuropsychiatrists, identified as key opinion leaders (KOLs). The KOLs identified 21 statements involving a total of 70 items with a major need of clarification on early-onset schizophrenia (EOS). The survey was distributed to 86 specialists in psychiatry and child neuropsychiatry. RESULTS The results revealed a large agreement among the expert group on all the investigated areas of adolescent schizophrenia patterns of care and management. Consensus was ultimately reached for 67 items of the Delphi survey (95.7%), while negative consensus was reached for 2 items and no consensus was reached for 1 item. CONCLUSIONS Overall, results showed a significant gap between the acquired scientific knowledge and clinical practice. In this scenario, it should be necessary to plan specific initiatives at a multiple level, to edit recommendations on clinical decision-making, as well as to prompt changes at the political and organizational levels, also involving scientific societies, patients, and family associations, to overcome the barriers that delay the implementation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Vita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefano Barlati
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Antonello Bellomo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Paolo Fusar Poli
- Department of Nervous System and Behavior Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Gabriele Masi
- Stella Maris, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Pisa, Italy
| | - Lino Nobili
- Child Neuropsychiatry, Genoa and Department of Neuroscience (DINOGMI), IRCCS G. Gaslini Institute, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Zuddas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefano Vicari
- Department of Life Sciences and Publich Health, Catholic University and Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy.,Children's Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
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25
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The Greek Hybrid Version of the Assertive Community Treatment Model: A Perspective View between Challenges and Limitations. PSYCH 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/psych3040050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) model of care has been long considered to be effective in the management of patients with severe mental illness (SMI) in most Western countries. The implementation of the original ACT model may be particularly challenging in rural and remote communities with small and dispersed populations and lack of adequate mental health services. Rural programs may have to adapt the model and modify the ACT fidelity standards to accommodate these limitations, and this is the rationale for the introduction of more flexible, hybrid ACT models. In rural Greece, the so called Mobile Mental Health Units (MMHUs) are well-established community mental health services. For patients with SMI that have difficulties engaging with treatment services, the new hybrid ACT model has been recently launched. The objective of this manuscript is to present the recently launched hybrid ACT model in rural areas in Greece and to explore the challenges and limitations in its implementation from the experience of a team of mental health professionals with ACT experience. Referral criteria have not been strictly set, but the number of previous relapses and hospitalizations is taken under consideration, as well as the history of poor treatment adherence and disengagement from mental health services. The main limitation in the implementation of the hybrid ACT service is that it has been introduced in several areas in the absence of a pre-existing community mental health service. This may impact referrals and limit focus on the difficult cases of patients with SMI, thus making the evaluation of the model inapplicable.
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26
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Deste G, Vita A, Nibbio G, Barlati S, Penn DL, Pinkham AE, Harvey PD. Autistic symptoms in people with schizophrenia: Neurocognitive, socio-cognitive, clinical and real-world functional characteristics of individuals without autistic features. Schizophr Res 2021; 236:12-18. [PMID: 34364032 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2021.07.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) symptoms are frequent in people living with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) and have a relevant impact on their daily life. However, current literature is mostly focused on investigating correlates of high levels of ASD symptoms, leaving largely unexplored the clinical, neurocognitive, socio-cognitive and functional characterization of individuals with minimal or absent ASD symptoms, which may represent a peculiar sub-population. METHODS A total of 361 patients (mean age 41.7 years; 117 females) included in the SCOPE study were assessed with clinical, neurocognitive, socio-cognitive, functional capacity, social skills and real-world functioning measures. The severity of ASD symptoms was assessed with the PANSS Autism Severity Scale (PAUSS): individuals with a PAUSS score < 10 were considered without significant ASD symptoms. RESULTS Seventy-two (19.95%) participants had no significant ASD symptoms and presented a less severe clinical status, as well as a better cognitive and socio-cognitive performance and functional profile. Lower non-autistic SSD symptoms severity and better social skills, functional capacity, global cognitive and Theory of Mind/Mental State Attribution (as measured by the Hinting task) performance and real-world social relationships emerged as predictors of non-ASD symptoms status in the logistic regression analyses. CONCLUSION Individuals without ASD symptoms represent a minority of people diagnosed with SSD that appears to be characterized by specific correlates, resulting in a less severe situation and more positive outcomes. As these factors could have a relevant impact on treatment response, assessing the severity of ASD symptoms could be an important step required to define a personalized treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Deste
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Antonio Vita
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Gabriele Nibbio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefano Barlati
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - David L Penn
- Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America; School of Psychology, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Amy E Pinkham
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, Dallas, TX, United States of America.
| | - Philip D Harvey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States of America; Research Service, Miami VA Healthcare System, United States of America.
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27
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Tabatabaee M, Mirsepassi Z, Sharifi V, Mottaghipour Y. Challenges of implementing psychiatric rehabilitation services: a low- and middle-income country case example. BJPsych Int 2021; 18:E9. [PMID: 34382954 PMCID: PMC8314980 DOI: 10.1192/bji.2021.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This article aims to explore the barriers and challenges of implementing psychiatric rehabilitation services at a psychiatric hospital in Iran. We performed an internal mixed-methods evaluation by adopting a multi-method approach. The data were organised, analysed and interpreted by the evaluation team. A low participation rate, administrative issues, low fidelity to protocols and incomplete documentation were the main findings. Implementing and maintaining rehabilitation services in low- and middle-income country settings requires more than a mere transfer of models of psychiatric rehabilitation; it needs adaptation to the local context as well as continuous evaluation and quality improvement in an iterative fashion, given the rapidly changing contexts with scarce resources.
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28
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Jonikas JA, Cook JA, Swarbrick M, Nemec P, Steigman PJ, Boss KA, Brice GH. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health and daily life of adults with behavioral health disorders. Transl Behav Med 2021; 11:1162-1171. [PMID: 33739399 PMCID: PMC8108632 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibab013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
People with behavioral health disorders may be particularly vulnerable to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, yet little is known about how they are faring. A mixed-methods, anonymous needs assessment was conducted to understand changes in the lives of adults with mental health and substance use disorders since the pandemic onset. A cross-sectional, online survey was completed by 272 adults in April and May 2020, recruited from statewide networks of community programs in New Jersey and New York. Measures included the Patient Health Questionnaire-2 and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-2 to screen for depressive and anxiety disorders. Also assessed was the pandemic's impact on sleep and dietary patterns, exposure to COVID-19 infection, and access to health care and medications. Finally, respondents were asked to describe in their own words any changes in their lives since the pandemic began. Over one-third (35.1%) screened positive for generalized anxiety disorder and over one-quarter (29.6%) screened positive for major depressive disorder. The majority reported pandemic-related changes in eating and sleeping patterns and exposure to COVID-19 infection. Multivariable logistic regression analysis found that many changes attributed to the pandemic were positively and significantly associated with screening positive for anxiety and depressive disorders. Qualitative analysis confirmed these findings and identified participants' resilience stemming from social support, emotion management, and self-care. These results can inform the design of services that assist this population to bolster self-management skills and reestablish daily habits to improve their lives during and following the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Jonikas
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at
Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Judith A Cook
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at
Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Margaret Swarbrick
- Wellness Institute, Collaborative Support Programs of New
Jersey, Freehold, NJ, USA
- Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers
University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Patricia Nemec
- Wellness Institute, Collaborative Support Programs of New
Jersey, Freehold, NJ, USA
| | - Pamela J Steigman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at
Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Katherine A Boss
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at
Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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29
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Nibbio G, Barlati S, Cacciani P, Corsini P, Mosca A, Ceraso A, Deste G, Vita A. Evidence-Based Integrated Intervention in Patients with Schizophrenia: A Pilot Study of Feasibility and Effectiveness in a Real-World Rehabilitation Setting. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E3352. [PMID: 32408561 PMCID: PMC7277196 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17103352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Impairment in real-world functioning remains one of the most problematic challenges that people with schizophrenia have to face. Various psychosocial interventions have proven to be effective in promoting recovery and improving functioning in schizophrenia; however, their implementation and their effectiveness in routine rehabilitation practice are still objects of study. The present pilot study aimed to assess the feasibility and effectiveness on clinical and real-world outcomes of an integrated treatment protocol composed of stable pharmacological treatment, computer-assisted cognitive remediation and social skills training provided in a rehabilitation center. Predictors of functional improvement were also assessed. Seventy-two patients diagnosed with schizophrenia participated in the study. A significant (p < 0.001) improvement in positive, negative and total symptoms, as well as in global clinical severity and real-world functioning outcomes was observed, with a large effect size in positive and total symptoms, global clinical severity and real-world functioning, and a moderate effect size on negative symptoms. Improvement in total symptoms (p < 0.001) and in global clinical severity (p = 0.007) emerged as individual predictors of functional improvement. These findings, although preliminary, suggest that an integrated, evidence-based treatment program is feasible and effective in a real-world rehabilitation context, and that similar interventions should be further implemented in everyday clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Nibbio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25133 Brescia, Italy; (G.N.); (A.C.); (A.V.)
| | - Stefano Barlati
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25133 Brescia, Italy; (G.N.); (A.C.); (A.V.)
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili, 25133 Brescia, Italy; (P.C.); (P.C.); (A.M.); (G.D.)
| | - Paolo Cacciani
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili, 25133 Brescia, Italy; (P.C.); (P.C.); (A.M.); (G.D.)
| | - Paola Corsini
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili, 25133 Brescia, Italy; (P.C.); (P.C.); (A.M.); (G.D.)
| | - Alessandra Mosca
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili, 25133 Brescia, Italy; (P.C.); (P.C.); (A.M.); (G.D.)
| | - Anna Ceraso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25133 Brescia, Italy; (G.N.); (A.C.); (A.V.)
| | - Giacomo Deste
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili, 25133 Brescia, Italy; (P.C.); (P.C.); (A.M.); (G.D.)
| | - Antonio Vita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25133 Brescia, Italy; (G.N.); (A.C.); (A.V.)
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili, 25133 Brescia, Italy; (P.C.); (P.C.); (A.M.); (G.D.)
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30
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Community-care unit model of residential mental health rehabilitation services in Queensland, Australia: predicting outcomes of consumers 1-year post discharge. Epidemiol Psychiatr Sci 2020; 29:e109. [PMID: 32157987 PMCID: PMC7214525 DOI: 10.1017/s2045796020000207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Community care units (CCUs) are a model of residential psychiatric rehabilitation aiming to improve the independence and community functioning of people with severe and persistent mental illness. This study examined factors predicting improvement in outcomes among CCU consumers. METHODS Hierarchical regression using data from a retrospective cohort (N = 501) of all consumers admitted to five CCUs in Queensland, Australia between 2005 and 2014. The primary outcome was changed in mental health and social functioning (Health of the Nation Outcome Scale). Secondary outcomes were disability (Life Skills Profile-16), service use, accommodation instability, and involuntary treatment. Potential predictors covered service, consumer, and treatment characteristics. Group-level and individualised change were assessed between the year pre-admission and post-discharge. Where relevant and available, the reliable and clinically significant (RCS) change was assessed by comparison with a normative sample. RESULTS Group-level analyses showed statistically significant improvements in mental health and social functioning, and reductions in psychiatry-related bed-days, emergency department (ED) presentations and involuntary treatment. There were no significant changes in disability or accommodation instability. A total of 54.7% of consumers demonstrated reliable improvement in mental health and social functioning, and 43.0% showed RCS improvement. The majority (60.6%) showed a reliable improvement in psychiatry-related bed-use; a minority demonstrated reliable improvement in ED presentations (12.5%). Significant predictors of improvement included variables related to the CCU care (e.g. episode duration), consumer characteristics (e.g. primary diagnosis) and treatment variables (e.g. psychiatry-related bed-days pre-admission). Higher baseline impairment in mental health and social functioning (β = 1.12) and longer episodes of CCU care (β = 1.03) increased the likelihood of RCS improvement in mental health and social functioning. CONCLUSIONS CCU care was followed by reliable improvements in relevant outcomes for many consumers. Consumers with poorer mental health and social functioning, and a longer episode of CCU care were more likely to make RCS improvements in mental health and social functioning.
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