The effectiveness of peer support groups in psychosis: a randomized controlled trial

Objective: To investigate the effect of a (minimally) guided peer support group (GPSG) for people with psychosis on social network, social support, self‐efficacy, self‐esteem, and quality of life, and to evaluate the intervention and its economic consequences. Method: In a multi‐center randomized controlled trial with 56 patients in the peer support group and 50 patients in the control condition, patients were assessed at baseline and after the last meeting at 8 months. Results: The experimental group showed GPSG to have a positive effect on social network and social support compared with the control condition. In the experimental condition, high attenders favored over low attenders on increased social support, self‐efficacy, and quality of life. Economic evaluation demonstrated groups to be without financial consequences. The GPSG‐intervention was positively evaluated. Conclusion: Peer support groups are a useful intervention for people suffering from psychosis by improving their social network.