Group treatment for substance abuse in schizophrenia.
OBJECTIVE
A review of the relevant research suggests a need to develop an appropriate, effective, and replicable treatment to help individuals with schizophrenia and substance abuse problems. This pilot study describes a biweekly group specifically designed to help the individual with both schizophrenia and substance abuse. The components of the group were support, psychoeducation, and skills training. Attention was also paid to the stage of recovery.


METHODS
Eighteen subjects attended the group and were assessed pregroup. Thirteen subjects completed a 1-year follow-up, and 5 subjects were assessed between 3 and 6 months.


RESULTS
At the follow-up assessment, 8 subjects (44%) were abstinent.


CONCLUSIONS
This type of treatment appears to be effective for reducing substance abuse in this population.
Addington
J
J
Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Alberta. jmadding@acs.ucalgary.ca
el-Guebaly
N
N
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011615:Psychotherapy, Group / Q000379:methods*; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000150:complications*; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications* / Q000534:rehabilitation*