Psychosocial interventions should be tailored to the goals, needs, abilities and circumstances of patients

Key message: Psychosocial interventions should be tailored to the carefully assessed goals, needs, abilities, and circumstances of individuals rather than assuming a ‘one size fits all’ approach.

Background

• Psychosocial interventions work synergistically with medication to optimise treatment adherence and successful community living.^{[CPA, 2005]}
• Optimal management requires the integration of medical and psychosocial interventions.^{[CPA, 2005]} Such interventions should not be seen as competing approaches but, in most cases, as necessary complementary interventions to improve clinical symptoms, functional outcome and quality of life.^{[CPA, 2005]}
• Effective psychosocial interventions may improve medication adherence, reduce risk of relapse and the need for readmission to hospital, reduce distress resulting from symptoms, improve functioning and quality of life, and provide support for patients, their families and caregivers.^{[CPA, 2005]}
• Common comorbid conditions such as substance abuse, anxiety disorders, and depression need to be recognised and addressed with psychosocial interventions.^{[CPA, 2005]}

Reference:
Canadian Psychiatric Association. Clinical practice guidelines. Treatment of schizophrenia. Can J Psychiatry 2005; 50 (13 Suppl. 1): 7S–57S.