Psychosocial risks and resources and treatment outcome in patients with mental disorders

Abstract

Background: Psychosocial factors have an impact on functioning and treatment outcome in patients with mental disorders. We developed a checklist of psychosocial risks and resources (RiRes). The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive power of the RiRes. Methods: N=712 patients completed the RiRes. In addition, data on activity limitations and participation restrictions (ICF-PsychA&P) and psychosocial health (HEALTH-49) from three measurement points (admission, discharge, 6-month follow-up) was available. Linear regression analyses were performed and cut-off scores were determined using ROC analysis. Findings: The 20 items of the the RiRes explain 36% to 39% of the variance in the ICF-PsychA&P total score at follow-up. When a sum score (range: 0-60) of the 20 items of the RiRes-P is calculated, a cut-off score of 24 identifies 66% of patients with unfavorable ICF-PsychA&P total score at follow-up. Discussion: The RiRes comprises environmental (social- and working environment, employment perspective) and personal factors (dealing with the disease, expectations, personal characteristics) which predict treatment outcome. This information may guide assigning interventions or developing treatment options for patients with mental disorders.