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A Group-based Treatment for Self-stigma in People With Mental Disorders in North-east Italy
Sponsor: Universita di Verona
Summary
Self-stigma refers to the internalization of negative stereotypes by individuals with mental disorders, leading to beliefs that they are dangerous, aggressive, or incapable of working. This phenomenon has harmful effects on various aspects of life, such as adherence to treatment, self-esteem, quality of life, and can increase feelings of despair and suicide risk. To address these issues, the Narrative Enhancement and Cognitive Therapy (NECT) was developed. NECT is a group-based intervention consisting of 20 sessions designed to reduce self-stigma in individuals with mental disorders. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of NECT in 416 patients from 26 mental health centers in Northeast Italy. It is structured as a pragmatic, multicenter, randomized controlled trial with two parallel arms. The study will assess the impact of NECT on several psychological dimensions, including levels of self-stigma, self-esteem, hope, empowerment, perception of recovery, mental well-being, and stigma-related stress. The findings of this research are expected to contribute to the understanding of effective treatments for patients with mental disorders, particularly those burdened by high levels of self-stigma, and to improve their recovery outcomes.
Official title: Assessing the Effectiveness and Feasibility of Group-based Treatment for Self-stigma in People With Mental Disorders: a Pragmatic Multisite Randomized Controlled Trial in Routine Mental Health Services in North-east Italy
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
416
Start Date
2024-10-01
Completion Date
2025-10-01
Last Updated
2024-11-26
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Narrative Enhancement Cognitive Therapy (NECT)
The Narrative Enhancement and Cognitive Therapy (NECT) consists of 20 group sessions divided into five parts: orientation (2 sessions), psychoeducation on stigma (3 sessions), cognitive restructuring (7 sessions), narrative enhancement (7 sessions), and a concluding reflection (1 session). The program helps participants challenge self-stigmatizing beliefs, develop coping skills, and create a new, positive narrative about themselves. Each session lasts about an hour, with a structured format of introduction, main discussion, and conclusion, encouraging active participation and reflection on personal experiences. The intervention ultimately fosters self-efficacy, control, and hope for the future.
Locations (1)
Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata (AOUI) Verona
Verona, Italy