Changes in self-rated health and depressive symptoms in schizophrenia patients during hospital treatment

Abstract

Treatment of schizophrenia patients seeks to alleviate specific symptoms of psychosis. The aim was to examine changes in self-rated health status (SRH) and mood indicators in schizophrenia patients during hospital treatment. Methods:Eighty patients (39 were men) were investigated at the beginning and at the end of hospital treatment by using SRH questionnaire arranged in accordance with health concept proposed by WHO, (Cronbach – 0.95) and to scaled items for evaluation sadness and lack of energy (Cronbach – 0.98). Findings:Indications of social support, physical and psychological aspects of health, including sadness and lack of energy, improved during hospital treatment. Improving in SRH was related to mood improving, though stronger in females.Discussion: Positive SRH and mood changes during hospital treatment in schizophrenia patients provides an opportunity to health psychologist to focus on early psychological rehabilitation targeted to health improvement.