Evaluation study of a self-stigma reduction program for patients with depressive disorders

• Project/Area Number: 15K01416
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Research Field: Rehabilitation science/Welfare engineering
• Research Institution: Nagasaki University
• Principal Investigator: TANAKA Goro 長崎大学, 医歯薬学総合研究科(保健学科), 教授 (00253691)
• Co-Investigator(Kenkyū-buntansha): 稲富 宏之 京都大学, 医学研究科, 教授 (10295107) ; 太田 保之 西九州大学, 公私立大学の部局等, 教授 (50108304) ; 中根 秀之 長崎大学, 医歯薬学総合研究科(保健学科), 教授 (90274795)
• Project Period (FY): 2015-04-01 – 2018-03-31
• Project Status: Completed (Fiscal Year 2017)
• Budget Amount: ¥3,640,000 (Direct Cost: ¥2,800,000、Indirect Cost: ¥840,000); Fiscal Year 2017: ¥1,300,000 (Direct Cost: ¥1,000,000、Indirect Cost: ¥300,000); Fiscal Year 2016: ¥1,300,000 (Direct Cost: ¥1,000,000、Indirect Cost: ¥300,000); Fiscal Year 2015: ¥1,040,000 (Direct Cost: ¥800,000、Indirect Cost: ¥240,000)
• Keywords: セルフスティグマ / 抑うつ障害 / 評価研究 / リカバリー

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Overcoming stigma against mental disorders and self-stigma of those with mental disorders is of crucial importance in promoting the establishment of community-based comprehensive care systems that cater to mental health patients. Here, we developed a self-stigma reduction program for patients with depressive disorders and conducted an evaluation study of its efficacy. Results confirmed the efficacy of the program, which integrates techniques including cognitive restructuring, problem-solving skills training, Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP), and Tojisha-kenyu (Self-directed Studies). However, there are limitations in sustainably maintaining reduction in self-stigma with this program alone; this would likely require collaboration with peer support groups in the community.