The effectiveness of peer support groups in  psychosis: a randomized controlled trial.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the effect of a (minimally) guided peer support group (GPSG) for people with psychosis on social network, social support, self-efficacy, self-esteem, and quality of life, and to evaluate the intervention and its economic consequences.


METHODS
In a multi-center randomized controlled trial with 56 patients in the peer support group and 50 patients in the control condition, patients were assessed at baseline and after the last meeting at 8 months.


RESULTS
The experimental group showed GPSG to have a positive effect on social network and social support compared with the control condition. In the experimental condition, high attenders favored over low attenders on increased social support, self-efficacy, and quality of life. Economic evaluation demonstrated groups to be without financial consequences. The GPSG-intervention was positively evaluated.


CONCLUSIONS
Peer support groups are a useful intervention for people suffering from psychosis by improving their social network.
Castelein
S
S
Rob Giel Research Center, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands. s.castelein@psy.umcg.nl
Bruggeman
R
R
van Busschbach
J T
JT
van der Gaag
M
M
Stant
A D
AD
Knegtering
H
H
Wiersma
D
D
D000328:Adult; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology; D012649:Self Concept; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012657:Self-Help Groups / Q000191:economics; D012944:Social Support