A systematic review of psychological interventions for excessive alcohol consumption among people with psychotic disorders.
OBJECTIVE
Excessive alcohol consumption is common among people with psychotic disorders. While there is an extensive literature on the efficacy of psychological treatments for excessive drinking, few studies have examined interventions addressing this issue among people with psychotic disorders.


METHODS
Systematic searches in PubMed and PsycINFO were conducted to identify randomized controlled trials comparing manual-guided psychological interventions for excessive alcohol consumption among individuals with psychotic disorders. Of the 429 articles identified, seven met inclusion criteria. Data were extracted from each study regarding study sample characteristics, design, results, clinical significance of alcohol consumption results, and methodological limitations.


RESULTS
Assessment interviews, brief motivational interventions, and lengthier cognitive behavior therapy have been associated with reductions in alcohol consumption among people with psychosis. While brief interventions (i.e. 1-2 sessions) were generally as effective as longer duration psychological interventions (i.e. 10 sessions) for reducing alcohol consumption, longer interventions provided additional benefits for depression, functioning, and other alcohol outcomes.


CONCLUSIONS
Excessive alcohol consumption among people with psychotic disorders is responsive to psychological interventions. It is imperative that such approaches are integrated within standard care for people with psychosis.
Centre for Brain and Mental Health Research, University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia. amanda.baker@newcastle.edu.au
A L
AL
Baker
S A
SA
Hiles
L K
LK
Thornton
L
L
Hides
D I
DI
Lubman
D019973:Alcohol-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy*; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; D006801:Humans; D062405:Motivational Interviewing; D011613:Psychotherapy; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000150:complications*; D016896:Treatment Outcome