The correlation between the quality of life and clinical variables among outpatients with schizophrenia

The study identifies the correlation between the quality of life (QoL) among outpatients with schizophrenia and clinical outcomes. A cross-sectional study design was used with 157 people with schizophrenia treated in outpatient clinics. Demographic, clinical and psychosocial variables were examined for their influence on QoL. Data were analysed with descriptive statistics, Pearson product moment correlation and stepwise forward multiple linear regression. The majority of the study participants were female, single, unemployed, had secondary level of education or less and were being supported financially by family members. QoL correlated negatively with advanced age, male gender, longer duration of illness, high body mass index and prescribed typical anti-psychotic medication. However, it was related positively with employment and being married. Illness duration, recurrent hospitalisation, knowledge level about schizophrenia, psychiatric symptoms and coping mechanisms were found to be key significant predictors of QoL among participants. The study findings enhance our understanding of socio-demographic, clinical and psychosocial characteristics influencing the QoL in people with schizophrenia. Involvement of families in the management process may improve patients' ability to be integrated in the community and be more socially active.