Long-term outcomes after Naikan therapy in patients with schizophrenia

Abstract

  We compared long-term outcomes between 9 patients with schizophrenia who were admitted and received 1-week intensive Naikan during the remission period 13-14 years earlier (Naikan group) and 8 who were admitted 13-14 years earlier and received no Naikan therapy (Non-Naikan group). The background, symptoms, and clinical course were similar between the two groups. In the Naikan group, 2 patients were not admitted after Naikan therapy, but the other 7 were admitted 3-6 times. Both groups showed repeated remissions and relapses. However, an awareness survey (concerning the parents, patients themselves, regrets/decisions, and treatment effects) revealed differences between the two groups. The Naikan group was thankful for their parents, deeply understood their immaturity and dependence on others kindness, highly regarded Naikan therapy, and was aware of their internal independence. The non-Naikan group was aware of only external and surface situations and considered drugs to be markedly effective as treatment. Despite repeated admissions and discharges, the Naikan group continued an existential spiritual way of life with richness of the mind.