Chapter 18 - Promoting Psychosocial Functioning and Recovery in Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders

Abstract

Impairment in social functioning is a well-recognised feature of psychosis and schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and ranked by patients as one of the top challenges they face in daily life. Social functioning problems often emerge early and last into the later stages of illness, indicating that early intervention may be particularly effective in improving long-term outcomes. This chapter will provide an overview and critique of psychosocial interventions that are most effective in improving, or preventing decline in, social functioning for people with psychosis and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. The current state of the evidence (feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy) supporting these psychosocial interventions will be critically assessed. Finally, current recommendations and differences in treatment guidance on what to do, and what to avoid doing, will be highlighted along with ongoing challenges and opportunities in integrating online, social media, mobile-based, and virtual reality technologies with existing evidence-based interventions to maximise social recovery.