Cognitive Remediation Therapy improving cognition for youth with Early-Onset Schizophrenia
Cognitive decline is associated with early-onset Schizophrenia. In fact, it is one of the first observable symptoms in addition to psychotic experiences. Cognitive decline can have a significant impact on an individual diagnosed with early-onset Schizophrenia and the individual’s family and social support. Recently published research out of Spain (Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry) has found cognitive improvements for youth diagnosed with early-onset Schizophrenia who participated in Cognitive Remediation Therapy (CRT). CRT involves cognitive strategy and learning techniques. Compared to youth who received treatment-as-usual, those receiving CRT demonstrated significant improvement in verbal memory and executive functioning as well as moderate improvements in adaptive functioning. Cognitive improvements were maintained up to three months after treatment stopped. Benefits were also seen via improvement in family burden. While long-term gains have yet to be studied, these results are encouraging for individuals newly diagnosed with Schizophrenia and their family members. To learn more about Cognitive Remediation Therapy and the ways it may be beneficial to you or your family member, contact Dr. Ermshar.