Conclusions
The family support group program for schizophrenia tested in this study demonstrated a positive effect on patients' functioning and rehospitalizations compared with the psychoeducation intervention and compared with routine care. This controlled trial may have implications for the dissemination of effective family interventions, given its emphasis on the importance of peer support for patients with schizophrenia. The study findings warrant further empirical investigation of the mutual support group model originated in the West, preferably with families from different socioeconomic backgrounds and in patient populations with co-occurrence of other mental health problems.