Effectiveness of A Stigma-Directed Interventional Program in Schizophrenia

Background: Stigma is a concern in the lives of patients with schizophrenia and their families. There is growing evidence on its effect on help-seeking and medication adherence behaviors that can affect the outcome of the disorder.
Objective: This study gives a preliminary idea about the effectiveness of psychoeducation delivered to caregivers of patients with schizophrenia on the patients’ levels of self-stigma.
Patients and Methods: To conduct the study, we designed a pilot study to test the effectiveness of the family psychoeducation on self-stigma experienced by the patients. The caregivers participating in the study group received a structured psychoeducation program. Self-stigma was assessed using the Internalized Stigma of Mental Illness Scale (ISMI). After completing the family psychoeducation, patients were reassessed, followed by a three-month follow-up period, culminating in the final assessment.
Results: Results of this study show that self-stigma decreased after family psychoeducation, and the reduction was maintained after the follow-up period.
Conclusion: Family psychoeducation is a promising and effective intervention for lowering self-stigma in patients with schizophrenia.