Effect of group psychotherapy on self-care skills in schizophrenia

Abstract Background Schizophrenia is a serious neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorder that places a considerable strain on the healthcare system on a national, regional, and global scale. This study's objective was to measure the level of self-care among individuals with schizophrenia. In addition, to develop, implement, and evaluate the impact of 3 month group therapy on self-care skills in this specific group of patients. The sample comprised 120 individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, with 60 assigned to study group (receiving group therapy) and 60 to control group (without group therapy). The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and The Exercise of Self-Care Agency Scale (ESCAS) were administered to all subjects. The study group observed a substantial decrease in the mean score of positive symptoms, negative symptoms, and symptoms of general psychopathology from baseline assessment to follow-up assessment. Results During the follow-up assessment, the study group exhibited a reduction in the mean of PANNS subscales by more than half and increase more than double in total score of ESCAS compared to the baseline assessment. Consequently, only the study group achieved a 70% increase in self-care in follow-up assessment. Increased self-care was more likely in patients who participated in the program, as indicated by the regression model. Conclusions Individuals with schizophrenia who underwent group therapy exhibited a significant decrease in positive, negative symptoms, and symptoms of general psychopathology. In addition, the implementation of group therapy led to a noticeable improvement in self-care skills compared to those without group therapy.