Psychosocial interventions for family caregivers of individuals diagnosed with first-episode psychosis: A systematic review
Archives of Psychiatric Nursing, vol.61, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, SSCI, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 61
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1016/j.apnu.2026.152084
- Journal Name: Archives of Psychiatric Nursing
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Psycinfo
- Keywords: Family caregiver, Family interventions, First episode/new onset psychosis, First-episode/ recent-onset schizophrenia, Psychosocial interventions
- Dokuz Eylül University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Background: Family caregivers of individuals with first-episode psychosis face significant psychological and emotional challenges. Psychosocial interventions are essential in addressing these burdens. Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions applied to family caregivers of patients with first-episode psychosis. Methods: Literature databases such as “Medline, PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus” were searched for studies written only in English using the following keywords “first episode/new onset/early psychosis, first-episode/recent-onset schizophrenia, caregiver, family caregiver, psychosocial interventions, and family intervention”. Results: Interventions included bibliotherapy, motivational interviewing-based psychoeducation, and cognitive-behavioral psychoeducation. Positive effects included reduced caregiver burden and improved coping skills. However, long-term sustainability remains under-investigated. Conclusions: Psychosocial interventions for caregivers of patients with first-episode psychosis are effective short-term. More longitudinal studies are needed. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42024603938