Improving outcomes for psychoses through the use of psycho-education; preliminary findings

A psycho-education programme is provided for patients suffering from psychosis in Scotland's only high secure hospital. An 18-month pilot study was carried out with consecutive case sample (treatment group) and 'treatment as usual' comparison group (control group). Pre, post and 6-month follow-up assessments were carried out. A range of outcome measures were used, including two measures of knowledge: a self-report assessment tool - Forensic Assessment of Knowledge Tool and the Understanding Medication Questionnaire. Other measures were used to establish level of insight, Schedule for the Assessment of Insight and assess mental state [Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS)]. Results from (n = 48) participants indicate no statistical difference between the treatment and control group scores on any assessment prior to commencement of the intervention, indicating a well-matched sample group. However, all four assessments showed statistically significant changes post group. Treatment group showed an ability to improve knowledge and retain information about psychosis, which may account for their improved mental state and level of insight. Despite methodological limitations and a small sample group, this project has given an early indication of the positive value of this psycho-education programme in a forensic setting.