Group Intervention for Romantic Relationships in Young Adults With Severe Mental Illness

Summary

This study evaluates a group-based intervention designed to improve romantic and social relationship skills in adults living with a severe mental illness (SMI), such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depressive disorder. Many adults with SMI experience loneliness, social isolation, and difficulties forming romantic relationships, even though most express a strong desire for intimacy. These challenges may be related to social skill difficulties, stigma, low self-esteem, and limited opportunities to develop healthy relationships. The "À deux, c'est mieux" (Better Together) program is a structured 12-session group intervention focused on developing communication skills, emotional regulation, social understanding, and healthy romantic relationship behaviors. Sessions are led by trained mental health professionals and take place in small groups. Participants will complete assessments before starting the program, at the end of the 12 sessions, and three months later. The study will examine changes in romantic relationship skills, quality of life, loneliness, self-esteem, self-stigma, and recovery. The purpose of this study is to determine whether this intervention improves romantic and social functioning and overall well-being, and whether it is acceptable and relevant for adults living with severe mental illness.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

* Adults aged 18 years and older
* Diagnosis of a severe mental illness (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depressive disorder)
* Currently single
* Motivated to improve romantic and social relationships and to pursue a romantic relationship
* Received mental health care within the past two years
* Able and willing to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Inability to speak or read French
* Currently receiving acute or crisis-level psychiatric care
* Unable to comply with study procedures or group rules (e.g., maintaining sobriety during sessions)

Conditions5

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