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  • Writer's pictureAlexander Lebedev

On the Efficacy of Non-pharmacological Methods in the Treatment of Psychotic Disorders

Updated: Sep 17, 2023


An enigmatic female figure, ethereal and mysterious, trapped within a labyrinth of intertwining illusions. Modern oriental vector art.

Debunking myths about the ineffectiveness of non-pharmacological approaches in treating psychosis.


 

Schizophrenia Bulletin published the results of a study confirming the efficacy of metacognitive training as part of a comprehensive treatment for schizophrenia. Link to the study

This randomized study demonstrated the effectiveness of a single session aimed at targeted correction of certain cognitive biases, specifically the "jumping-to-conclusions" bias. I'd like to emphasize the simplicity of the methodology used in this particular study (see image). We're not talking about a full-fledged psychotherapeutic process or training, but merely one session addressing a single, typical cognitive distortion seen in the spectrum of schizophrenic disorders.

The study found significant (d = 0.87-0.96) positive effects on the competence of patients in making independent decisions regarding their own treatment.



 

As a reminder, earlier this year a meta-analysis of 11 clinical studies (Link to the study) revealed a significant effect of metacognitive training on the severity of delusional disorders (g=-0.38), which persisted for at least six months (g=-0.35).

© Dr. Alexander Lebedev | MD PhD

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