Day treatment program for schizophrenia: the 6-week follow-up concerning psychopathology and quality of life
Abstract
Successful long-term schizophrenia management should concentrate on treatment non-adherence, lack of information about the disease, poor insight, depressive symptoms, cognitive decline and stressful family atmosphere. We introduce clinically-based 6-week structured integrated program for out-patients with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders in the stabilization phase of the treatment.
The group day-treatment program consists of individual and family psychoeducation, life style improvement intervention, social skills training, cognitive remediation and information technology aided relapse prevention program (ITAREPS). To assess the feasibility and effectiveness we designed one-year prospective follow-up field study.
Baseline and 6-week outcomes data on psychopathology (PANSS) and quality of life (Schwartz Outcomes Scale-10, WHO-QOL-BREF and Social Integration Survey) are presented. Preliminary analyses (N=71; first episode N=29) show significant improvement in PANSS total score and all PANSS domains scores.
Compared to healthy controls quality of life is lower in patients including those with first episode. After the program quality of life improves significantly; in Group activities, Appropriateness and Hygiene domains reaches normal controls.
Our short-term data suggest that participation at the program early after discharge is beneficial as it improves quality of life, prevents social isolation and early non-compliance and ensures continuity of care.