Why we need positive psychiatry for schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, 2017

Link: Schizophr Bull. 2017 Jan 20;43(2):227–229. doi: 10.1093/schbul/sbw184

Jeste, D. V., Palmer, B. W. & Saks, E. R. - Editorial

Quotes: “…:it demonstrated that the outcome was mainly predicted by developmental factors rather than by psychotic symptoms.” pg. 228.

“The key positive psychosocial factors include resilience, optimism, hope wisdom, post-traumatic growth, and social engagement.” pg 228.

“Notably, happiness scores in the schizophrenia group were associated, not with severity of psychopathology, but with levels of resilience, optimism, and personal mastery, and (lower) perceived stress.” pg 228

Positive Psychological interventions (PPI’s), “PPI’s also directly target factors such as meaning and purpose, which are rarely addressed by existing psychosocial interventions, but are potentially helpful in maintaining recovery by helping patients to establish meaningful connections with people and activities.” pg 229.

“Happiness is possible even in the context of a life challenged by schizophrenia.” pg 229.

“A positive change in attitude toward SMI is necessary among scientists and clinicians, in order to effect a similar change among people with SMI and their families.” pg 229.

“Appropriately optimistic therapists help foster parallel optimism in patients and their families. It is important for the field to appreciate that therapeutics need not be restricted to addressing psychopathology, and that compensatory, lifestyle=focused, and resiliency pathways provide therapeutic targets that may positively impact neurobiology and enhance personal fulfillment.” pg 229.

Thoughts:

I love the focus on positive psychology and seeing a person as having potential for growth instead of a focus on issues, problems or symptoms. I also very much appreciate how research is incorporating the impact of treatment directly on biology more now.

Discussion topics:

How might Positive Psychology interventions be implemented into work with current clients you meet with? Or into your own life?

Where would you send someone who is interested in the topic?

Would it be helpful for individuals with lived experience to share articles like this with their current therapists who may not be informed of such outcomes?

I noted 2 articles (#3 and #7) in the references section that I want to look up and read.