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Group-based interventions for individuals with dual pathology: a preliminary focus group study
Lídia Susana Mendes Moutinho1, Joana Teixeira2, José Afonso Paixão3
1Nursing Research Innovation and Development Centre of Lisbon (CIDNUR), School of Nursing, University of Lisbon, ESEUL Av Prof. Egas Moniz, Lisbon, 1600-190, Portugal. lmoutinho@enfermagem.ulisboa.pt.
BMC Nursing
|July 9, 2026
Summary
Group therapy for Dual Pathology (co-occurring mental illness and addiction) improves patient understanding of their conditions. This enhanced literacy is linked to better treatment adherence for individuals with complex health needs.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- Dual Pathology, the co-occurrence of mental illness and addiction, significantly impacts individuals and society.
- Effective treatment strategies for Dual Pathology are crucial due to the worsening severity and persistence of both conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore participants' experiences within a Dual Pathology group therapy setting.
- To understand participants' perceptions of the group dynamics and their interactions with healthcare professionals.
Main Methods:
- A qualitative descriptive study utilizing focus groups with 12 participants in a Portuguese psychiatric hospital.
- Data analysis employed Braun & Clarke's reflective thematic analysis, facilitated by MAXQDA 24 software.
Main Results:
- Group therapy, particularly nurse-led education, enhances patient literacy regarding substance use and psychiatric disorders.
- Key themes identified include the perceived meaning of the Dual Pathology Group, the importance of healthcare professionals, knowledge acquisition, and the relationship between alcohol use and psychiatric disorder.
Conclusions:
- Improving health literacy about substance use and psychiatric conditions appears to positively influence treatment adherence in patients with Dual Pathology.
- Group therapy interventions can be valuable in managing Dual Pathology by increasing patient understanding and engagement.
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