Family-based intervention for schizophrenic patients in China. A randomised controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Family Therapy
• Public Health

Background:

• Schizophrenia poses significant challenges for families, particularly within China's unique social context.
• A tailored intervention was developed to address these specific family dynamics and environmental factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a comprehensive, ongoing family-based intervention for schizophrenic patients in China.
• To assess the intervention's impact on patient outcomes and family burden.

Main Methods:

• Sixty-three patients with schizophrenia and their families were enrolled and randomized to standard care or a family intervention.
• The intervention included monthly counseling, medication management, education, group meetings, and crisis intervention over 18 months.

Main Results:

• The family intervention group showed significantly lower rehospitalization rates and shorter durations of stay at 12 and 18 months.
• Patients in the intervention group had longer employment durations and experienced significantly lower family burden.
• These improvements were independent of medication compliance.

Conclusions:

• The developed family intervention is effective, cost-effective, and suitable for urban Chinese families affected by schizophrenia.
• The intervention is feasible within the constraints of the Chinese mental health system.