Psychoeducation and the family burden in schizophrenia: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background: The majority of patients with schizophrenia live with their relatives in Pakistan, thereby families experience a considerable burden. We aimed to study the impact of psychoeducation on the burden of schizophrenia on the family in a randomised controlled trial. Methods: A total of 108 patients with schizophrenia and their family members from the outpatient department of a teaching hospital in Lahore, Pakistan were randomised. Both groups received psychotropic drugs but one group received psychoeducation in addition. Family burden was assessed at the time of recruitment and at 6 months post intervention. Results: In all, 99 patients and their relatives completed the treatment. There was significant reduction in burden at post-intervention assessment in the psychoeducation group based on intention to treat analysis. Conclusion: Family psychoeducation can be an important intervention for patients with schizophrenia in Pakistan. © 2009 Nasr and Kausar; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.