Acceptability of Texting 4 Relapse Prevention, Text Messaging-Based Relapse Prevention Program for People With...

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Digital Health
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder (SAD) are chronic mental health conditions associated with a high risk of relapse.
• Relapse prevention is crucial for maintaining functional recovery and improving quality of life in individuals with SAD.
• Existing relapse prevention strategies may have limitations in accessibility and patient engagement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the process outcomes and patient acceptability of a pilot randomized controlled trial for Texting 4 Relapse Prevention (T4RP).
• To assess the feasibility and perceived benefits of a text messaging-based intervention for relapse prevention in individuals with schizophrenia or SAD.

Main Methods:

• A pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted with 40 participants diagnosed with schizophrenia or SAD.
• Participants were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to either the T4RP intervention group or a treatment-as-usual control group.
• Process indicators, including patient acceptability, were collected at 6 months post-enrollment.

Main Results:

• Over 90% of patients found the T4RP text messages easy to understand, answer, positive, and supportive.
• Patient acceptability positively correlated with recovery (β = 0.29) and patient-provider communication (β = 1.04), and negatively with disorder symptoms (β = -0.27).
• Acceptability was consistent across different diagnoses and age groups.

Conclusions:

• The T4RP intervention is a feasible and well-accepted method for relapse prevention in individuals with schizophrenia and SAD.
• Text messaging interventions show promise in supporting patient recovery and engagement in mental healthcare.
• Future research should explore T4RP's efficacy during high-risk periods, such as hospital discharge.