Evaluation of the impact of a self-stigma reduction programme on psychosocial outcomes among people with schizophrenia spectrum disorder

Purpose The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a self-stigma reduction programme on self-stigma. Design/methodology/approach A randomized controlled trial was conducted from November 2017 to December 2018 with 278 people diagnosed with schizophrenia (PDwS). Participants were randomly assigned to receive a self-stigma reduction programme (psychoeducation, cognitive behavioural therapy and social skills training) or treatment as usual. Findings PDwS in the intervention group experienced a greater reduction in the level of self-stigma (20.19 vs −0.62; p < 0.001) at post-intervention and (37.35 vs −0.66; p < 0.001) at six-month follow-up. Originality/value The first RCT examines the problem and implements intervention in middle east country. Also, the authors have conducted high-quality RCT.