Cognitive behavioral group treatment for low self-esteem in psychosis: a proof of concept study

Abstract

Background Patients with a psychotic disorder often suffer from low self-esteem, which has been related to higher suicidal risk, poor quality of life and, the maintenance of psychotic and depression symptoms. However, intervention studies are scarce and reported interventions concern individual therapies provided by highly educated psychologists. Both the individual setting and the required qualifications of the therapist may contribute to a low level of availability of an intervention. Therefore we aimed to investigate the efficacy of an easily accessible psychological group treatment targeting self-esteem in patients with a psychotic disorder. Methods Thirty patients with a psychotic disorder were included in this pilot study. All participants received nine weekly group sessions of 90 min. The therapy was offered in groups of six to eight patients and was provided by a psychiatry nurse and a graduate psychologist. To assess self-esteem the Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale and the Self-Esteem Rating Scale were used, to measure depression symptoms the Beck Depression Inventory-II was administered. Questionnaires were completed at baseline and post-treatment. Results Twenty-seven patients (90%) completed treatment. At post-treatment, self-esteem was significantly increased and depression symptoms were significantly decreased compared to baseline. Discussion This pilot study demonstrates the feasibility and treatment potential of a self-esteem group treatment provided by a psychiatry nurse and graduate psychologist in a patient population that receives little psychological treatment. Results suggest that this easily accessible intervention may be effective in improving self-esteem and reducing depression symptoms.

Effect of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation on postoperative cognitive function in older patients with lung cancer: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

“…Similar to former studies, our study has shown that the rapid recovery of cognition facilitated by the TEAS intervention can significantly reverse the decline in quality of life, especially in terms of improved global function, emotional function, fatigue, and pain scores, even at 6 months [ 32 ]. It was consistent with previous observations that good cognitive function could help patients improve their self-esteem, set goals in their lives, and enjoy activities that help them to achieve better mental health [ 33 ]. In addition, this study was in agreement with previous research showing that TEAS could alleviate acute pain and prevent its transition to chronic pain after surgery [ 34 ].…”