The importance of long term group therapy for diminishing the stigma of patients with psychosis

Abstract

Objectives

Psychosis is a highly stigmatised condition. Our clinical experience with long term groups of patients with psyhosis have shown that long term group therapy has an important destigmatising role.

Methods

A small group of 6 to 8 medicated patients is run in co-therapy. A modified, non-structured, psychoanalytic group technique which includes psychoeducation, cognitive techniques, nonstructured conversation and clarifications is used.

Results

In the early phases of group work stigma was manifested as drop-out of at least two members. With the development of group cohesiveness the group started talking about stigma. A feeling of universality in group work is often a fundamental destigmatising step.

Conclusion

Patients fear that their symptoms could be unique. Talking about the psychotic symptoms and feelings helps to differentiate them. Improved control over the problems and their life has an important destigmatising power. Group therapy has a destigmatising role through several group therapeutic factors, especially feelings of universality, altruism and group cohesiveness. Subsequentely, patients with psychosis start using their healthier parts and experience less stigma.