The effects of support groups on caregivers of patients with Schizophrenia

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of support groups on caregivers of patients with schizophrenia. This was a time series nonequivalent control group design. Subjects were evaluated in three waves of data collection: before intervention, after intervention and one-month follow-up. The support group's effects were measured using changes in the subjects' perceived levels of burden, depression status and satisfaction about their participation in the program. Professionally led support group had a close and time-limited format. The GEE (generalized estimated equation) revealed differences in caregivers' level of burden and depression status between the support and control groups in the post-test and one-month follow-up. The differences highlighted the fact that participation in support groups provides more effective assistance to caregivers than the control group. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.