Needs-based cognitive-behavioural family intervention for carers of patients suffering from schizophrenia: 12-month follow-up

Objective: To examine longer-term effectiveness of a needs-based family int ervention for carers and out-patients suffering from schizophrenia. Method: Seventy-nine unselected patient-carer pairs were recruited from a g eographical area and allocated randomly to one of two conditions. One group received needs-based cognitive-behavioural family intervention in combinat ion with general family support plus the standard care. The control group r eceived the general family support and standard care only. Results: Analysis was carried out on an intention-to-treat basis. There was a significant advantage for family intervention, in terms of relapse (37% relapsed compared to 72%, NNT = 3) and on other clinical measures. Treatmen t group and medication compliance were significant and independent predicto rs of relapse. There was a significant reduction in carer needs in the inte rvention group. Conclusion: Family intervention directed at carers' needs within it standar d mental health service can produce benefits for patients beyond the term o f intervention.