Outcomes of psychiatric rehabilitation – a retrospective study of young adults with severe mental disorders after psychiatric rehabilitation

Abstract

Aims

The aim of this study was to analyze the changes in functioning and psychiatric symptoms of young adults who participated psychiatric rehabilitation.

Methods

The rehabilitation program included active engagement of the individual, coaching, rehabilitation groups and functional rehabilitation in, for example ADL-activities and work/education. The main goal of the program was that the individual would be able to reach independent and meaningful living. The sample consisted of individuals aged 18–29 years who had been in rehabilitation between 2011–2017 (n = 39). The data consisted of information collected during rehabilitation and interRAI-CMH-evaluations. From InterRAI-CMH-instrument we gathered and analyzed scales focusing on psychiatric symptoms and functioning. Explorative statistics, a paired samples t-test or a Wilcoxin`s rank order test was used for analyzes.

Results

Median age of the participants was 23 years and average length of rehabilitation was 2,5 years. Of the participants 92% had several diagnoses, most common anxiety disorders. Antipsychotics were the most commonly used medication by 72%. Symptoms of depression decreased, and independent living increased statistically significantly from baseline to the end of the rehabilitation.

Conclusion

This was the first Nordic study on outcomes of psychiatric rehabilitation using interRAI-CMH-instrument. Even though the sample size was small, using clinical sample is an important contribution. Independent living was the primary target of the rehabilitation and a result of a significant increase in independent living is an important marker of effectiveness of rehabilitation. Based on this study, psychiatric rehabilitation has positive effect on the functioning and mental health of young adults with severe mental disorders.