Cognitive remediation therapy in schizophrenia

Abstract

This study aims to examine the effects of cognitive remediation in schizophrenia. The study is a Randomized controlled trial performed at government hospital for mental care, Visakhapatnam. Eligible subjects were, aged between 18 and 65, with a diagnosis of schizophrenia according to ICD-10. Social-demographic characteristics and current treatment details were obtained. For cognitive assessment - THINC IT tool is used. For the level of functioning, WHO-Disability Assessment Schedule is used.after baseline assessment 49 participants were randomized. 25 were assigned to the therapy group(cognitive remediation therapy + TAU) and 24 (TAU) to the control group. 45 participants completed post- intervention assessment at the end of week 12. Most of them had poor cognitive performance at baseline. There was a significant and durable improvement in working memory and cognitive flexibity after the end of therapy. Post-treatment assessment of social functioning showed that those who received CRT+TAU (cases) have showed improvement in Understanding and communicating, getting along with people, life activities and participation in society. The results were statistically significant with a P-value of <0.05. Understanding and communicating, life activities and participation in society after the end of therapy. The results were statistically significant with a P- value of <0.05. CIRCuits, a new generation computerised CR programme, is feasible to deliver with therapist-led sessions. It led to improved performance in neurocognitive and social functioning. It also resulted in increased structured activity post-therapy.